Cultivated Therapeutic Landscapes: Gardening for Prevention, Restoration, and Equity

Jessica Thompson, Michelle Howarth, Michael Hardman, Penny Cook

Research output: Chapter in Book/Report/Conference proceedingChapterpeer-review

Abstract

In this chapter, we conceptualise public realm greenspace as a therapeutic landscape, and explore its role and potential as a medium for civic environmental nature-based activities that generate health and wellbeing benefits. We outline common approaches that facilitate the process of cultivating and nurturing the local landscape, such as horticulture and practical conservation at a neighbourhood level. Such activities aim to achieve both physical changes to the landscape and positive social outcomes, both for individuals and the wider community. We explicate the key concepts relating to Green Social Prescribing (GSP) and the central tenet of therapeutic landscapes within the evolving GSP movement. Through a critical and multidisciplinary lens, we explore relationships between poor health, climate change, and biodiversity loss, and the implications for public realm greenspace and GSP. Key theories are detailed, leading to a discussion on critical practice issues for the sustainability and success of GSP. The chapter concludes with exemplar case studies that illustrate the efforts currently being made to address some of the critical practice issues, including delivery models and examples of integrated working, which sustain a public realm therapeutic landscape within a GSP context.

Original languageEnglish
Title of host publicationCultivated Therapeutic Landscapes
Subtitle of host publicationGardening for Prevention, Restoration, and Equity
EditorsPauline Marsh, Allison Williams
PublisherTaylor and Francis Inc.
Chapter6
Pages133-152
Number of pages20
ISBN (Electronic)9781000906325
ISBN (Print)9781032409924
DOIs
Publication statusPublished - 1 Jan 2023

Keywords

  • Green Social Prescribing
  • Therapeutic Landscapes
  • Health
  • Green space

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