The Healing Power of Flowers

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A few basic principles lie at the heart of every healing garden, Addison says. Ideally it should be planted in a place that has shade, sun, and silence, so people can meditate undisturbed. The plot should be tended year round, no matter the weather, so those who use it have both a sense of permanence and a feeling that the environment can be trusted as a life-giving force; to that end, it should include evergreens as well as flowers. Finally, the garden needs a focal point for meditation. At the Center for Victims of Torture it's a small rock garden with delicate wildflowers emerging between large rocks, symbolizing both a struggle for life and triumph over adversity. Ultimately, Addison says, gardens are all about transition -- whether it be from illness to healing or from life to death. They change by the hour, week, month, and year. They require us to relinquish control: A deep appreciation of life emerges with each sprouting plant, even the weeds. And simply by embracing natural rhythms, people from all walks of life, no matter the nature of their past experiences, can learn to accept the inevitability of loss and find hope in the promise of new life.

Spiritual Gardening at Home

Here are a few ideas from Oregon-based herbalist and gardening expert Richo Cech to help you start your own spiritual garden.

Set an intention. State your need or purpose for the garden and the nature of the relationship you'd like to have with it.

Create a design that reflects your intention. Choose a mix of plants that nourish body, mind, and spirit, such as herbs that are flavorful or medicinal or that have spiritual importance. For example:

White sage is an herb with antioxidant and antibacterial properties that can be made into tinctures, teas, and incense.

Tulsi or holy basil is used in Thai recipes. Hindus also grow it outside the doors of their homes and temples to purify the space.

Don't wage war on weeds. They are not your enemy! Here are some things to do instead:

If they can't be eaten, chances are they can be turned into medicine. Certain weeds, such as dandelion, burdock, chickweed, and nettle, are full of vitamins and medicinal properties.

Practice patience. Use weed pulling as a chance to remove blockages to kindness. Don't think of them as 'bad,' just remove them to refocus energy and conserve soil nutrients for preferred plants.

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