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Earthwise hosts garden excursions for seniors

Earthwise Society recently hosted a group of seniors from The Wexford as part of its Garden Buddies on the Go program.
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Seniors from The Wexford recently paid a visit to the Earthwise Garden as part of the Garden Buddies on the Go program.

Earthwise Society recently hosted a group of seniors from The Wexford as part of its Garden Buddies on the Go program.

Earthwise works with various seniors' groups to arrange excursions to the garden where seniors participate in fun, personalized activities.

The Wexford seniors began their visit with a leisurely guided tour of the Earthwise Garden, which was in full bloom on a sunny, warm afternoon. Besides being spectacular this time of year, the garden is also accessible, which makes it an ideal venue for a seniors' walk. The paths, which meander gently through beds of brightly coloured blossoms, are wide and easy to maneuver.

After their tour, the seniors relaxed on the Five Senses Patio, listening to the bird songs and admiring the view of the garden. They also enjoyed an organic, Earthwise-grown herbal tea-tasting session. The cold fennel and peppermint mix proved popular and group members were keen to try this healthy and delicious combo at home.

Near the end of the visit, volunteer Christine Harlington handed out lavender bouquets and sachets to serve as a lasting reminder of the outing. Many participants remarked that spending time in the garden made them feel rejuvenated and invoked fond childhood memories.

"It's amazing how something as simple as the smell of flowers can bring you back to another place and time," said one senior.

Outings like the ones offered through the Garden Buddies on the Go program can be extremely beneficial to seniors who do not often get the opportunity to spend time in nature. Getting outside and into a garden has been shown to have a remarkable therapeutic impact on seniors' health. Simply being in a garden can brighten the mood and ease stress, and walking around increases mobility, flexibility, endurance and strength.

Through this program, seniors also get a much-needed chance to socialize with others and feel more connected to their community.

If you are involved with a group of seniors who would enjoy an outing at the garden, contact Earthwise at 604-946-9828 or info@earthwisesociety.bc.ca.