| There has emerged a growing consensus that environmental problems such as global warming, diminishing biodiversity, and overpopulation pose a serious threat to both human and biospheric health. Ecopsychologists and other social theorists have suggested that these environmental problems are symptoms of an underlying dysfunctional relationship between humans and the natural world. Furthermore, some have questioned whether the values inherent in the dominant social paradigm of Western societies play a fundamental role in shaping our environmental attitudes and behaviors. This doctoral project focuses on increasing mental health professionals' awareness of the wide-ranging therapeutic benefits of gardening and nature. A selective literature review was conducted in order to summarize how gardening benefits people by exposing them to the health promoting qualities of nature, providing chances for exercise and physical activity, facilitating place attachments, and providing opportunities for social interaction. The uses and benefits of gardens in schools, communities, homes for the elderly, hospitals, and rehabilitation centers are also reviewed. Finally, it is suggested that gardening offers promise in fostering a more harmonious, interdependent, and sustainable partnership between humans and the natural world. |
