7 in 10 bereaved people say time in nature helps to process grief
A new poll by Marie Curie, the UK’s leading end of life charity and long term National Garden Scheme beneficiary, has revealed the important role of gardens and outdoor spaces when coping with difficult life moments, with 7 in 10 (70%) people who have been bereaved stating that spending time in nature helps them to process their grief and remember someone that has died.
Almost 4 in 5 UK adults agreed that spending time in nature clears their mind during stressful times (78%) and provides an ‘escape’ from daily pressures (79%). Nearly half (47%) say it helps them navigate difficult life moments more than listening to music or podcasts (35%), exercise or physical activity (29%) or watching TV (24%).
Despite this, a quarter (25%) of people say they don’t have adequate access to gardens or green spaces where they live.
In response to the poll, Marie Curie and actor Jim Carter are encouraging people to visit the wide range of gardens open to the public through The National Garden Scheme this summer. This comes as the charity celebrates 30 years of partnership with the organisation.
Jane Murray, Bereavement Counsellor at Marie Curie, said: “I’ve seen firsthand the restorative power spending time in nature can have for people at the end of life and their family and friends who may be experiencing overwhelming emotions. Gardens can be a powerful healing space, offering a quiet sanctuary for people to process their feelings after a terminal diagnosis or bereavement and escape from the pressures of daily life. For people who have been bereaved, nature reminds them life goes on – new beginnings emerge in time and grow into something beautiful.”
Marie Curie ambassador Jim Carter said: “I’m a passionate gardener. I love my garden and have always understood how lucky I am to have instant access to my own little oasis.
“A recent event in my private life has showed just how important it is to have access to outdoor spaces. A friend of mine has Alzheimer’s disease and is finding communication more stressful. I find the easiest way to be with her is to sit side by side in the rose garden of our local park and just absorb the sights, sounds and smells of nature. I can feel relaxation washing over her and can see nature working its magic.
“The same magic works for the bereaved and the grief stricken. Everyone deserves easy access to green spaces, especially in tough moments.”
In the poll, gardens and green spaces were identified as having a soothing effect, with people stating they feel peaceful (62%), calm (57%), comforted (35%) and reflective (34%) when they spend time in nature.
For people who have been bereaved, nature and outdoor spaces are shown to be especially impactful, with over 2 in 5 (46%) revealing they have visited outdoor spaces to reflect on loved ones during moments of grief, and 68% stating that spending time outside significantly helps them cope.
Wendy, who received support from a Marie Curie Companion Volunteer when her husband Sam was dying, commented: “Nature has been so valuable to me since Sam’s death, as I’ve been putting pieces of my life back together and navigating my grief. When I’m meditating outdoors in the forest or pruning and tending to my plants in the garden, I feel very grounded. I have my favourite tree that I sit under and that’s where I’m at peace.”
The poll also reveals how the outdoors helps those living with a terminal illness, with over half (55%) of bereaved respondents noting that spending time in nature helped their family member or friend while dealing with their diagnosis. 54% also said it helped their loved one process their emotions in their final weeks of life.
The National Garden Scheme gives visitors unique access to over 3,300 private gardens in England, Wales, Northern Ireland and the Channel Islands. The organisation raises funds for nursing and health charities through admissions, teas and cake, with over £77.8 million donated to date. Marie Curie’s partnership with the National Garden Scheme has raised more than £12 million since 1996, helping to support thousands of people at the end of life.
Dr Richard Claxton, Chief Executive of the National Garden Scheme, said: “We’re passionate about the physical and mental health benefits gardens and outdoor spaces can bring, and it’s especially moving to hear how important they are to people at the end of life and those close to them. We’re proud to have been supporting Marie Curie for 30 years, donating over £12 million in that time to fund vital end-of-life and palliative care. The longevity of the partnership is testament to the generosity of our garden owners and enduring love of gardens and garden visiting across the UK.”
Read ‘The Colour of Grief’ to find out how Amanda Bicknell’s garden played a key role in coping with the loss of her 43 year old husband to cancer.
For more on the National Garden Scheme’s partnership with Marie Curie click here
If you’re living with a terminal illness or have been affected by dying, death or bereavement, Marie Curie can help. Visit mariecurie.org.uk or call the free Marie Curie Support Line on 0800 090 2309.
