It was a lovely early autumn morning, and the great tit and coal tit were in chorus with each other. Singing away, I couldn’t help wondering what they were communicating to each other. It was a beautiful and intriguing sound.

I was sitting on my yoga mat, garden trowel in hand, weeding, and the sun was still strong and warm. In the distance there were human voices, singing from the local church here, mixed with the harmonies of a light breeze. I paused and felt the pleasure of the whole scene wash over me. I knew I was doing some good, for myself and for the others living here.

My son-in-law had suggested I go to the gym, and I reassured him that if all my medical checks came back OK and my heart was all fit to ‘go ’ then that seemed a good idea. It is well documented that strength and resistance exercises are important, especially post 60, and I confess I find it boring to do dumb bells in my room.

I have tried to jazz it up with music and stay disciplined, but I fail miserably. However, what could be better than a gym in the garden, not with dumb bells, but with trowels and forks. I dislike weeding normally. Also, I had written myself off as a fit gardener. How wrong was I. I live where there is a large garden, and there was a lot of work that was needed. I gave myself an aim. To have a garden by winter, looking crisp and clean. It is a fantastic garden here. I wanted to make a difference.

“We Reap and Sow The Seasons of Our Days.” from the music by Renaissance ‘ Song for all Seasons’ 1978

There is a saying, isn’t there, that we reap what we sow. Back in the summer, my harvest came early. Months of just worrying, overwork, and rushing about trying to look after everyone, and control everything about my life came at a huge price. Most of my friends on Social Media know the details, so I wouldn’t bore you with a written replay.

There were results with a profound shift, but I know we can plant new beginnings at any time of the year. My whole garden of life has just had a big make-over with colour, new thoughts and images of the future. I go with the flow, trust, appreciate everything and everyone, and simply let life come and take care of itself. It always works out in the end.

My last post left you with the theme of how art and the natural world can heal us. I did some research, and there is so much evidence out there. Both Art and Nature can radically shift our physiology as well as our psychological well-being in the most remarkable way.

I still marvel that I haven’t had one single prescribed medication to make me well again. Walking in nature, sun, air, sea, bus rides, connections, tea, rest, good food and the support of wonderful people, simple days out, music, concerts and something to hope for have all restored me in ways I couldn’t believe possible.

( I loved this day out at Hunstanton, took the bus and sat here writing with my lunch)

Sitting by the seaside with chips, writing poems, reading, and now gardening has become a way of living. Slowing down, learning patience by waiting for buses, and now being able to run for one or two (last week’s effort provided a chuckle from the waiting people on the bus) have meant new conversations and new connections. I never push myself on people, but maybe others appreciate a hello or:

“That’s a great camera you have got there, hoping to photograph something nice” has met with lively conversations.

I miss not being able to drive dreadfully and the freedom it gave me, but hoping I can get my car back, it will never be the same again though. I shall still take the bus for local trips. The bus ride is cheaper than the petrol and parking combined.

Getting back to this post’s subject, I am leaving some references for you to click on, should you want to know more about the benefits of Nature and Art in terms of their healing qualities.

Here is a brief summary list:

1. Engaging with art lowers blood pressure, decreases the need for pain medication, and can shorten hospital visits.
2. Drawing and painting lower cortisol levels (our natural stress hormone).
3. New neural pathways are formed for regulating emotions and recovery when engaging with art.
4. Nature acts as a buffer against stress and cognitive fatigue.

When both Nature and Art are combined, the effects are multiplied.

How can we have a simple dosage of this marvellous medicine?

1. ( My nature table- note the car keys sitting there waiting for my return to driving)
3. Here are some suggested activities:
5. Sit and look at a picture, taking in the scene.
6. Gardening, even if it is a container garden, if you have a small space.
7. For me, it is reading and writing outside.
8. Take a drawing or art lesson, or if lack of funds prevents, go to the library and find self-taught books. Look on YouTube- lots of tutorials. I am having a go at Watercolour flowers.
9. Care for a houseplant- I have two.
10. Place a seasonal pot of greens or flowers, grasses in your room.
11. Create a nature table.
12. Celebrate the seasons in any way you can. I used to hate the darkening nights; now I love them.
13. Visit a pumpkin patch.
14. Join a choir (singing linked to reduced depressive feelings).

From June to October, I still can’t believe I have come so far. It’s another Sunday, the sun shines, the church bells are ringing, and I’m leaving you now to catch some warmth left in the garden. I should finish this project by the end of the month. There are cyclamens to buy up the road this morning at a plant sale and a pot by our window to plant.

( Enjoying my recent visit to a pumpkin patch with my family.)

Next time: Sharing with you my poem from Hunstanton beach called Cars And Buses (from Metal Cans to Conversations). The title is not quite finalised.

( Written initial draft Sunday 11th October)

References:

What is the evidence on the role of the arts in improving health and well-being? A scoping review https://share.google/Ri5883qRlTOVgNsJd 

The Power of Art in Healing – Professional Artist Magazine https://share.google/A5hyGnEwqSvsnstG7 

Scientific Research on Art for Healing | Foundation for Healing Photo Art https://share.google/BXado8wY1anhf5tBX 

Research Digest: Nature and art | Children & Nature Network https://share.google/FbOquvGLgl96ddHrT