Mental Health & Wellness Bloom in Antioch’s Apothecary Garden

Nestled within the serene landscape of Antioch College, the Apothecary Garden is more than a beautiful collection of plants. It serves as a vital sanctuary for mental health and well-being. 

Antioch’s apothecary garden was founded by the college’s students in 2017 as part of a “guerilla gardening” project. It was re-established in 2021 as a shared community project with the Urban Native Collective. Antioch developed the garden’s design as a Permaculture Demonstration Site for Ecosystem Restoration over the summer of 2024, with student workers guiding cleanup, planting, and community day activities in the fall of 2024. 

This unique garden embodies nature's healing powers and provides many benefits for mental wellness. With funding from the Endeavor Foundation, the Apothecary Collective purchased scores of native plants from a local garden center and introduced 58 plants representing 29 species to its established floral communities.

In this blog post, we explore the various mental health advantages of the Apothecary Garden, including:

Connection to Nature – In our fast-paced, technology-driven world, finding a connection to nature can often be overlooked. The Apothecary Garden invites visitors to immerse themselves in a natural setting surrounded by diverse plant life. Research consistently shows that spending time in nature can reduce stress, anxiety, and depression. The simple act of walking through the garden or sitting among the plants can foster a sense of peace and tranquility, aiding in emotional regulation and overall mental clarity.

Therapeutic Gardening – Gardening can be a therapeutic activity. Engaging in hands-on gardening tasks, like planting, weeding, and harvesting, can be a form of mindfulness practice. Active participation helps students focus on the present moment, minimizing thoughts that often lead to anxiety and stress. The Apothecary Garden provides opportunities for students and community members to get involved in gardening, promoting a sense of accomplishment and purpose.

Learning About Herbal Remedies – The Apothecary Garden is a living classroom for students interested in herbal medicine. Learning about the various plants and their medicinal properties can empower individuals to take charge of their health. Knowledge of herbal remedies can foster a sense of control and agency, which is particularly beneficial for mental health.

Community Engagement – Serving as a community engagement and collaboration hub, the Apothecary Garden is where Antioch hosts workshops, volunteering days, and group activities that foster connections among students, faculty, and partners. Building relationships with peers and mentors significantly enhances feelings of belonging and support, which are crucial for mental health. The social aspect of engaging in community gardening helps combat feelings of isolation and loneliness.

Aesthetic And Sensory Experience – The Apothecary Garden's visual beauty provides a feast for the senses. The array of colors, textures, and scents can evoke positive emotions and memories. Engaging with these sensory experiences can uplift students’ moods and promote relaxation. Additionally, the garden offers a quiet space for reflection, meditation, or simply enjoying the beauty of the natural world, which can be incredibly restorative for mental health.

Other Educational Opportunities – The Apothecary Garden is a place for relaxation and a source of knowledge. Educational programs about plant care, herbalism, and sustainability can stimulate intellectual engagement and curiosity. Caring for plants provides students, staff, and faculty with a sense of purposeful, rewarding work. Continuous learning can enhance self-esteem and provide a sense of accomplishment, especially as students encounter the effects of climate change and climate anxiety. 

The Apothecary Garden at Antioch College is a testament to the profound benefits of connecting nature and mental health. The garden serves as a valuable resource for students and the community alike. Whether students seek solace in its beauty, engage in therapeutic gardening, or learn about herbal remedies, the Apothecary Garden provides an enriching experience that nourishes both mind and spirit. They can embrace nature's healing power and discover its transformative benefits.

Dr. Suzelis is an Assistant Professor of Literature at Antioch College. For more information about the Antioch Apothecary Garden, email nsuzelis@antiochcollege.edu.