A space for reflection
As the world gets ever busier and noisier, we find out about the Quiet Garden movement, using ordinary back gardens to offer people a place for silence and solace
DID YOU KNOW? Science shows those who get into the garden have lower levels of stress hormones, sleep better and have improved mental wellbeing
In today’s busy world there’s nothing like getting away from it all in the peace and quiet of a garden, whether it’s your own green patch or a garden open to the public. And that’s the ethos behind a movement called Quiet Gardens that has taken off across the world.
The movement was the brainchild of Anglican minister Philip Roderick who took the view that any garden, big or small, wild or manicured, could offer people the chance for thought, peace or prayer. He encouraged people to open up their garden to anyone who could benefit from it, from over-stressed workers to nature lovers to those in need of a moment of stillness. From these small beginnings 25 years ago the movement has grown and grown and today there are 300 Quiet Gardens worldwide, in private gardens, churches, schools and hospitals. Most of these are available to enjoy on select days of the year or by making an appointment. Tina Jefferies (58) who has been opening her garden for the scheme for seven years, as well as being a Trustee of the movement, says it’s all about helping people tune into the world around them. “We’re underpinned by a Christian ethos but anyone can host or visit a Quiet Garden, whatever their faith. We recently produced a booklet with exercises for people to experiment with in the garden, encouraging them to think about smell or sound, all focused on making them aware of their surroundings, bringing with it a sense of stillness, calmness and being in pace with nature. “When I first heard about Quiet Gardens I thought
I’d need a gardener or acres of land, but you don’t. It doesn’t even need to be in a quiet, remote spot – I know of one Quiet Garden by the M25.” While everyone enjoys Quiet Gardens in a different way, Tina says most people come away feeling better. “People gain perspective and are just still in the moment. Some choose to sleep in my little garden room, while others become very creative and choose to paint or write. “We’ve hosted many people who say the garden has completely changed their outlook, most memorably an older lady who had been given some respite from caring for her husband who has dementia. She loved gardening but hadn’t had any time for it so coming here helped her reconnect with her old self.
“It’s so rewarding to give people this joy and inspiration, whether they’re religious or simply find a sense of fulfilment in nature. And I’d never anticipated just how much pleasure this would give me.”
■ To find your nearest Quiet Garden, or to become a host, call 01494 578909 or visit quietgarden.org