A “balm for the soul” and “nature’s magic potion” could be considered descriptions for the positive effect nature has on people. Initial research demonstrates that participants who use gardens as places for reflection, improve their feelings of hopefulness, raise their spirits and increase their willingness to change their lives.

Bloedel Reserve and Florida Atlantic University are piloting a free six-week Stroll For Well-Being program and are looking for participants to use the reserve’s grounds as a place for healing and a time for reflection.

The Stroll For Well-Being is a self-guided tour, and participants will receive a workbook to help walk them through the different areas of the gardens and provide inspirational text to reflect and journal upon. Participants will also have the opportunity to participate in check-in meetings which are facilitated by the creator who oversaw a similar and successful program at the Morikami Museum and Japanese Garden in Florida.

The six-week program begins Monday, Oct. 6. For information or to enroll, contact Erin Jennings at 206-842-7631, ext. 19.

Bloedel Reserve invites visitors to come experience the healing powers of nature. As founder Prentice Bloedel said, “Nature can live without man, but man cannot live without nature.”