Water Features
The Healing Power of Water: Enhancing Wellbeing at the Alfred Nicholas Memorial Gardens
At Root Down Horticultural Therapy and Counselling, we are passionate about the therapeutic effects of nature, and water plays a crucial role in our sessions. Water is not just a vital resource for life, but also a powerful tool for emotional and mental healing. Our Walk-and-Talk Therapy sessions at the stunning Alfred Nicholas Memorial Gardens offer clients the opportunity to experience the calming influence of nature, with water features providing the perfect backdrop for healing.
The Role of Water in Therapeutic Environments
Water features, both natural and artificial, are well-known for their ability to create serene environments that support mental and physical well-being. Research across multiple fields supports the idea that exposure to water in natural settings has significant health benefits.
Prospect-Refuge Theory asserts that our deep, evolutionary connection to water is rooted in our survival instincts (Appleton, 1996). People are naturally drawn to water, which can create a sense of refuge and safety.
According to Stress Reduction Theory, water offers a positive distraction from daily stressors, which has been shown to facilitate stress relief (Ulrich, 1999).
Attention Restoration Theory (Kaplan & Kaplan, 1989) also highlights the fact that water, as an element with high fascination value, helps restore our ability to focus by providing a calming and captivating environment.
In addition to the growing body of research on green spaces, there's a smaller but equally important field of study focusing on the health benefits of blue spaces—areas with water elements like lakes, ponds, or waterfalls. Studies have shown that these spaces promote general health, mental well-being, and even physical activity (Gascon et al., 2017; White et al., 2013).
Water Features in the Alfred Nicholas Memorial Gardens
The Alfred Nicholas Memorial Gardens provide a unique setting for our walk-and-talk therapy sessions. The gardens are home to various water features, from reflective ponds to beautiful waterfalls, which offer more than just scenic beauty. These features create a peaceful and restorative environment where clients can relax, reflect, and engage in meaningful therapy sessions.
Stress Relief: Water features provide a soothing background that helps clients let go of tension and stress.
Restoration of Focus: The gentle movement and sound of water helps restore mental clarity and attention, allowing clients to more easily engage in the therapeutic process.
Connection to Nature: Being near water offers a deeper connection to the natural world, enhancing the sense of mindfulness and present-moment awareness.
The Evidence-Based Benefits of Blue Spaces
Research into the health benefits of blue spaces is compelling. For example:
Studies have found that coastal proximity is associated with improved general and mental health (Pasanen et al., 2019; White et al., 2013).
The presence of freshwater features in proximity to residences can improve mental health outcomes and encourage physical activities like recreational walking (Karusisi et al., 2012).
High visibility of oceanic and freshwater spaces has been linked to lower levels of psychological distress (Nutsford et al., 2016).
Even small water features, such as those found in urban parks and gardens, have been shown to promote psychological restoration and improve overall well-being (Völker & Kistemann, 2013).
Experience the Therapeutic Effects of Water with Root Down
At Root Down, our Walk-and-Talk Therapy sessions at the Alfred Nicholas Memorial Gardens offer more than just time outdoors—they provide a well-researched, evidence-based approach to mental health and wellbeing. The combination of nature, water, and mindful reflection creates a powerful environment for healing.
Whether you're looking to reduce stress, manage anxiety, or simply reconnect with yourself and nature, the water features at the Alfred Nicholas Memorial Gardens can play an integral role in your journey toward well-being. Join us, and discover the healing power of water and nature for yourself.
Book your session today and experience the benefits of walk-and-talk therapy at one of Victoria's most beautiful locations.
