Mellish House Residents Mark The Arrival Of Spring With ‘Grow My Wellbeing’ Workshop
With Spring just around the corner and green shoots emerging in the new-season sunshine, there’s no better time for residents at Mellish House to connect with nature through ‘Grow My Wellbeing’.
The opportunity to ‘bring the outside in’ with a visit from Grow My Wellbeing’s Chantal is always popular with residents. Her regular sessions at Mellish House in Sudbury, Suffolk, have developed a real following and when news of a workshop was announced, resident Grace declared, “She's coming back again, I can't wait - she's such a lovely lady and so talented!"
Chantal’s Workshops Help To Bring Calm and Boost Moods
Grow My Wellbeing was set up with a mission: to share the benefits to mental health that houseplants can bring – especially important for those who have limited access to the outdoors. Studies have shown that plants can reduce stress levels and boost our moods – so what better way to spend time than choosing, potting, and learning to care for a plant of your own.
Chantal has brought this to life for residents at Mellish House for the past 3 years and enjoys the sessions just as much as they do. "I love to come here to see everyone, it's so relaxing and the residents and their relatives really get involved, which makes me happy", Chantal explained.
Residents Take Pride in Their Creations
These planting workshops are as much about wellbeing as they are an activity session, and they have so many benefits, particularly for an individual with dementia. Residents are encouraged to make their own choices, to take control and to relax, enjoying all the sensory benefits brought by the feel of soft soils and succulent leaves.
Afterwards, Mellish House residents love to display their own creations on their windows so others can see the plants grow, and they are encouraged to keep them healthy. Through the workshops, Chantal has built positive relationships with the staff and residents’ families too, and there’s a sociable element to the sessions when participants can be found chatting and potting at the same time!
Mellish House Wellbeing Coordinator, Chris, can see first-hand how beneficial the Grow My Wellbeing sessions are to residents and in particular, Chantal’s very special approach: “Chantal brings her peace and joy when entering our home and we couldn't find her passion for what she loves to do anywhere else. She’s a true inspiration for all who meet her."
