Three core elements

The RHS Wellbeing Garden Blueprint identifies three core elements to turn any garden into a place that supports health, brings joy and makes a lasting positive difference:

Design principles

Follow design principles with the strongest scientific evidence, drawn from a global review of research by the RHS and the University of Surrey and informed by our RHS work with NHS wellbeing gardens:

Begin with curiosity

You don’t need a garden to begin. Any moment in nature – in a park, a quiet corner, even a simple window box – can help reveal what matters most to you. Let these gentle practices guide your exploration:

  1. Pause and notice (10 mins) – Let your eyes wander until three beautiful things find you. What is it about them that speaks to you?
  2. Take a sensory walk (15 mins) – Move slowly, without destination. Which colours, textures or scents draw you closer?
  3. Listen deeply (10 mins) – Find stillness. What sounds bring you back to yourself?
  4. Welcome wildlife (5-10 mins) – Watch the birds, the bees, the small wanderers. Perhaps their presence instils something in you.
  5. Keep a nature journal (5 mins) – Record what you noticed and how it made you feel.

Evidence and inspiration from the Blueprint

Read the RHS Wellbeing Blueprint in full to explore in more depth the scientific evidence behind the design principles and to get further practical advice on how to create a wellbeing garden at home:

Get involved

The RHS is the UK’s gardening charity, helping people and plants to grow - nurturing a healthier, happier world, one person and one plant at a time.