Mark's story

For Mark, gardening provides the opportunity to create a space of his choosing, as well as enjoying the life lessons of nature. Here he shares answers to some of our questions.

What inspired your interest in gardening?

I was looking for work having lost my job in animation. I was also having a turbulent time socially so was in a negative emotional space.

How would you describe your level of gardening experience?

I have an RHS level 2 qualification and have worked professionally as a maintenance gardener for several years.

How often do you garden?

Less during the winter. From mid spring I will try and do a couple of hours a week gardening, most likely on the weekends.

What do you enjoy doing most in the garden and why?

Lots of things, though I generally find myself gravitating towards maintenance tasks the most.

Gardening provides me a sense of control ... there is a space where I can exert my own ideal of how I want things to be whilst also observing nature.
Mark

Recently, I came to the realisation that in a world where I feel unable to control what happens in the news or to those I love, that gardening provides me a sense of control by mowing the lawn and edging the borders. There is a space where I can exert my own ideal of how I want things to be, while also observing nature and remaining endlessly fascinated by what it has to offer.

How does gardening affect or support your health and wellbeing?

When I first started working as a gardener, I was asked to clear a large area of ivy so that a new bed could be established in its place. While carrying out the task, I considered that I was also clearing out unwanted elements of my own life and starting afresh at the time.

I've always appreciated the metaphors that gardening provides. I can place myself or thoughts of my current situation into the tasks I'm undertaking.
Mark

I've always appreciated the metaphors that gardening provides. I can place myself or thoughts of my current situation into the tasks I'm undertaking. The most recent example of this was when staking tomatoes. I allowed myself to consider where I got support when feeling overwhelmed by life, as well as how much support I provide to those around me.

What advice would you give to others thinking about spending more time in the garden?

Do the tasks that you feel most drawn to. Try not to become overwhelmed by all that needs doing. Find the activities that provide you with a sense of accomplishment or allow you to feel you have nurtured something.

Find the activities that provide you with a sense of accomplishment or allow you to feel you have nurtured something.
Mark

For example, you might enjoy watering beds and containers in the evening whilst appreciating the sights and sounds around you.

Share your story

We love hearing about how your gardens and our Thrive advice have helped support your wellbeing. If you would like to share your story, email info@thrive.org.uk