Dig into summer with our our vibrant gardening group!

Whether you’re a seasoned green thumb or a curious beginner, West Kent Mind welcomes you to cultivate, connect, and bloom.

Here, Mindful Gardening group member Neil tells us more about the group…

The Mindful Gardening group is based at the Sevenoaks Wellbeing Centre. Tucked behind the car park is a community garden with views to the north downs. The group meets weekly to maintain it, grow vegetables and other plants. We also bring a packed lunch and spend as much time outside on the terrace as the weather allows.

We’ve been running sessions for almost fifteen years: from clearing the overgrown site to laying out paths, raised beds and a pond. Like all gardens it is a “work in progress” and we are always grateful for new inspiration. Occasionally we have visited flower shows, local gardens and nearby garden centres.

There have been numerous studies about the benefits to mental (and physical) health of spending time in the garden. Exposure to nature, green spaces and gardens has been shown to help with anxiety and depression. The camaraderie of being outside with others can also improve confidence and motivation. Lastly, growing plants from seed for example, or working in the garden can bring a sense of achievement.

Anyone over the age of eighteen is welcome to attend. You don’t have to be an expert or even keen gardener. If you merely wish to come along and spend time outside that is fine. We spend a fair amount of time just having a chat. Not necessarily about gardening either!

Everyone is the same in the garden. There are no preconceptions. You can bring anything: enthusiasm, expertise or simply just yourself to relax. It is always interesting to meet people who, for whatever reason, you may not have had the chance to know.