Gardens are known for their beauty and tranquility, but lesser realized benefits may be their incredible abilities to sooth and comfort. Many of us can attest to physical as well as emotional gains of working intimately with nature to cultivate a garden. Such planted plots serve many purposes ranging from food sources to sites of reflection, introspection, or personal rejuvenation.
Gardens have been recognized by many cultures, groups, and religions for their functionality and overwhelming benefits. They serve as therapeutic jewels to provide social, emotional, environmental, and cultural outcomes. Besides personal benefits, one of these outcomes may include revived community pride and community asset development that results in increased tourism!
Generally, the beauty and serenity of
gardens beacon us to fresh air and sunshine, and encourage healthy
living. They also open venues for family and community gatherings,
such as group meetings and church classes, or they create wonderful
sites for photos and weddings. Adding an element of faith can
facilitate even more peaceful introspection of a spiritual nature.
The scriptural references, the beauty, the sounds of water, and
the solitude make a faith garden even more effective in
this realm.
Scientific researchers continue to assess the underlying benefits
of gardens on lifestyles, but faith gardens positively impact
us in many ways. For example, green space like faith gardens reduces
stress and crime by positively engaging children, youth, and adults;
increasing community awareness and comradeship; and aesthetically
increasing pride and economics.
It is the hope and aim of the Alabama Cooperative Extension System's
Urban Affairs & New Nontraditional Programs Unit that faith
gardens will continue to be an invaluable community resource.