A handful of soil puts soul at ease

THERE is nothing more calming than putting your hands in the soil and nothing more rewarding than growing something.
Noosa Community Care understands that and is offering a Horticultural Therapy Program.
The program, an initiative promoting well-being using plants and gardening is currently taking enrolments.
Noosa Community Care’s Jan Gorman said the program was wheelchair friendly and benefited people recovering from stroke and heart disease, early stage dementia and physical and intellectual disabilities.
“The program has physical, social, psychological and cognitive benefits. It can help reduce anxiety and stress, improve emotional well-being, stimulate the senses, improve concentration and boost social interaction,” Ms Gorman said.
Noosa Community Care delivers the program in conjunction with Cath Manuel of Soil to Supper and a dedicated band of volunteers.
Horticultural therapy is the process of using plants and garden related activities to promote well-being of people’s minds, body and spirit.
The program caters for up to 15 participants at a time and transport to and from Noosa Community Care can be arranged.
Sessions are $5 per person per session, are held each Wednesday from 9am until 11.30am and morning tea is provided.
Participants need to bring a sunhat, closed in shoes, and sunscreen.
For more information contact Jan Gorman at Noosa Community Care on (07) 5329 6175 or via email to jan.gorman@noosa.qld.gov.au