Seoul’s “Garden Prescription” Program Shows Promise in Reducing Depression, Enhancing Mental Well-being
Seoul is expanding its innovative “Garden Prescription” program to address the psychological challenges faced by its citizens, including feelings of depression and loneliness. The program, which incorporates nature-based therapies, has demonstrated significant positive effects, with nearly 97% of participants reporting improved mental and emotional stability.
Nature as Medicine: Seoul Expands Garden therapy Program
Building on a successful pilot program, Seoul will implement the “Garden Prescription” across 134 facilities, offering some 2,400 sessions throughout the year. The initiative provides various natural healing activities prescribed by health professionals, including garden walks, barefoot walking, forest yoga, flower crafts, and phytoncide breathing exercises.
From Trial to City-Wide: Scaling Up a Successful Pilot
The “Garden prescription” program was initially tested at 11 locations, including forest healing centers and sections of the Seoul Trail. The positive results have spurred the city to broaden its reach, targeting 10,000 residents through diverse venues such as healing forest trails, children’s forest experience centers, and community parks.
Trauma Healing for First Responders Kicks Off Expansion
The expanded program begins March 26 at the bulamsan Forest Healing Center in Nowon-gu, offering trauma relief specifically tailored for firefighters.
Participant Testimonials and Expert Backing Highlight Program’s Success
Feedback from the pilot program has been overwhelmingly positive. One participant, identified only as A, who participated in the program through the Seoul Youth Startup Center, stated, “I felt a sense of connection with the flowers and trees, and I realized I wasn’t alone.” A study conducted in partnership with Kim Hyun-jung, a professor at Seoul National University’s School of Dentistry, further validated the program’s effectiveness. Participants in the Bulamsan and Gwanaksan programs experienced a 36% reduction in depression and a 28% increase in positive emotions.
Tailored Programs and Accessibility
The city plans to develop an operational guideline to tailor programs for diverse demographics, including infants, children, youths, and seniors. Individuals can participate in the ”Seoul Garden Prescription” program by contacting social welfare facilities, public health centers, or Seoul youth centers to inquire about affiliated garden therapy programs.
Seoul Aims for a Loneliness-Free City
According to a statement from a Seoul official, the city is dedicated to creating a “Seoul without loneliness” by continuously developing and providing enriching programs like the Garden Prescription.
What are the specific phytoncide-related activities involved in the “Garden Prescription” program, and how do they contribute to participants’ well-being?
Seoul’s “Garden Prescription” Program: Q&A
What is the “Garden Prescription” program?
It’s a nature-based therapy program in Seoul designed to combat depression, loneliness, and improve mental well-being. Activities include garden walks, forest yoga, and flower crafts.
How effective is it?
the program has shown remarkable results. Nearly 97% of participants report improved mental and emotional stability. A study indicated a 36% reduction in depression and a 28% increase in positive emotions.
Where can I participate?
The program is expanding to 134 facilities, offering 2,400 sessions this year. You can inquire at social welfare facilities, public health centers, and Seoul youth centers.
Who is the program for?
The program caters to diverse demographics: infants, children, youths, seniors, and even offers trauma relief specifically for first responders like firefighters.
What are the specific activities involved?
Participants engage in garden walks, barefoot walking, forest yoga, flower crafts, and phytoncide breathing exercises. Phytoncides are airborne chemicals released by plants that are believed to boost the immune system and reduce stress.
Is this a new initiative?
No, it’s an expansion of a triumphant pilot program tested at 11 locations, including forest healing centers and sections of the Seoul Trail. The positive outcomes have fueled the city to broaden its reach.
What is the goal of the program?
Seoul aims to create a “Seoul without loneliness” by providing enriching programs like the Garden Prescription, fostering a sense of connection and well-being for its residents.
Embrace the healing power of nature, just like the residents of Seoul! Consider incorporating nature-based activities into your own life to boost your mood and reduce stress.
