SABI Magazine SABI Magazine June July 2017 | Page 15

Therapeutic Gardens Many therapies Beginnings How would Joanne define a Therapeutic Garden? How was the firm Therapeutic Gardens Australia born? Explains Joanne: “Therapeutic gardens are purpose-built outdoor spaces that combine specific built infrastructure elements with carefully selected vegetative inclusions. They are built to enhance the physical and mental health outcomes of individuals and groups with particular medical needs, ranging from dementia or autism spectrum disorder, through to ADHD or depression. These spaces must be carefully designed and considered from every angle to ensure they are accessible, fit- for-purpose and can facilitate the meeting of therapeutic goals.” Joanne’s initial professional background was in marketing and PR, but she always had a love for gardening. Some of the therapies that can be designed for and conducted in therapeutic gardens include, but again are not limited to: horticultural therapy, animal therapy, play therapy, sensory integration therapy, art therapy, occupational therapy, work experience & skills development. “From a very early age I spent a great deal of time actively gardening with my grandmother and this time was very precious to me. I learned for myself that gardening can bring a sense of contentment and there is joy and beauty to be found in interacting with nature,” she says. On a highly personal level, when Joanne was struck with post-natal depression after the birth of her daughter and found time in the garden restorative and a panacea for her symptoms, the power of gardens was a revelation indeed. As a Mum of “four awesome children”, Joanne relates to us how she saw the therapy of gardens in action while raising her kids. H I S H T I L - SOUTH AFRICA MOOKETSI: Farmboschhoek 415, Houtbosdorp Road, Mooketsi 0825 RIEBEECK WEST: Plot 2028, Station Street, Riebeeck West, 7306 WHY Hishtil Hishtil South Africa was established in 2007 in Mooketsi in Limpopo, as part of the International Hishtil Group. ü ü ü ü ü ü ü Best possible start Greater uniformity Consistent quality Updated technology Technical back up Professional service Country wide delivery Tel: [phone] | Fax: [phone] | Cell: [phone] email: [email protected] | P O Box 41, Mooketsi, 0825, Limpopo, South Africa www.hishtilsa.com Hishtil South Africa’s primary production is both grafted and un-grafted vegetable seedlings that are delivered country wide.