The ancient concept of nature as healing got lost in the medical strides of the 20th century. Today, backed by extensive research, healthcare providers realize anew the importance of nature in reducing patient stress and improving health outcomes. Healing gardens in healthcare facilities not only benefit patients and residents, but also family members and staff. Gardens serve the environment by improving air quality, and by reducing stormwater runoff and the impacts of the heat island effect. This course teaches participants the principles of designing healing gardens. Topics include a history of the role of nature in healing, research findings showing the curative aspects of nature, design features for healing gardens that improve mental, physical, and social well-being and the role of performance fabric for shade structures and seating in healing gardens.

Presented by various experts on behalf of Sunbrella.