Originally published June 22 2005
Veterans turn empty lot near VA hospital into a place for gardening, practicing Tai Chi
by Mike Adams, the Health Ranger, NaturalNews Editor
This Mail Tribune article describes a project by Oregon vets to create their own place to relax, grow vegetables, and practice meditation and Tai Chi just next to the local veterans hospital.
Working under penetrating sunlight, Jimmie Johnson and about 25 other veterans yanked out weeds in a courtyard at the U.S. Department of Veteran Affairs center in White City.
Once a swampy no-man's land occupied by bulrushes, the courtyard between Building 239 and 240 has evolved over the past three years into the scene of flourishing flowers and vegetables, a cascading waterfall and busy veterans tending the bounty.
Inspiration for the courtyard's transformation came in part from a veteran in the facility's day treatment program, who suggested that administrators allow patients to use the space to grow their own produce, said Max McIntosh, rehabilitation center director.
The veteran, whose name could not be released because of federal Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act (HIPAA) regulations, did not immediately respond to requests for an interview.
"What we find is that participating in a gardening endeavor gives participants more self-esteem and confidence, and digging in the dirt is healthy," McIntosh said.
The garden started with a design by the Jackson County Master Gardeners, who volunteered about 100 hours planning 12 beds for three zones: a Zen rock garden, a flower garden and a vegetable garden, said member Dave Rugg.
The association is an Oregon State University Extension Service program that helps educate the public about gardening and provides services to nonprofit organizations.
Patients, staff members and local chapters of the American Legion, Disabled American Veterans and Veterans of Foreign Wars contributed labor, money and materials.
In addition to growing flowers and vegetables, veterans said they plan to use the garden to relax and visit with friends.
"I feel close to nature here, and it gives me an inner peace, knowing I'm contributing to the functioning of the garden," said Johnson, who entered the day treatment program after his wife died.
All content posted on this site is commentary or opinion and is protected under Free Speech. Truth Publishing LLC takes sole responsibility for all content. Truth Publishing sells no hard products and earns no money from the recommendation of products. NaturalNews.com is presented for educational and commentary purposes only and should not be construed as professional advice from any licensed practitioner. Truth Publishing assumes no responsibility for the use or misuse of this material. For the full terms of usage of this material, visit www.NaturalNews.com/terms.shtml