“Visual exposure to plants and other nature can foster considerable restoration or recovery from stress.”
– Dr. Roger S. Ulrich, “Health Benefits of Gardens in Hospitals,” Colleges of Architecture and Medicine, Texas A&M University
This week I spent four days at the hospital with my husband, whose officemates had wisely called the paramedics after he vomited and couldn’t move without pain. One of his co-workers cried in the ER lobby, telling me what a great guy he is. For a second my fear made me wonder if the verb "is" should've been "was," especially since aneurism was another word that arose. After ruling that and cardiac issues out, the doctors wanted to determine if he’d had a stroke. Though it took several tests to land on a diagnosis, it ended up being a viral infection on the nerves connecting his inner ear to his brain, causing him vertigo, nausea, temporary deafness, light sensitivity, an unstable gait and pain among other symptoms—nothing anyone wants, but not life threatening.
During these days, I found relief in what became my spot to sit—the last booth on the edge of the cafeteria. When taking a break from Robert’s darkened hospital room, I drank Tazo Zen green tea and appreciated the rock garden and greenery outside. I felt grateful for the landscape architect who made the adjacent highway seem miles away. During this taxing time, the cushiony seat and nourishing view became a place of calm and stability.
During these days, I found relief in what became my spot to sit—the last booth on the edge of the cafeteria. When taking a break from Robert’s darkened hospital room, I drank Tazo Zen green tea and appreciated the rock garden and greenery outside. I felt grateful for the landscape architect who made the adjacent highway seem miles away. During this taxing time, the cushiony seat and nourishing view became a place of calm and stability.
When and where has nature helped you find a degree of peace amid uncertainty?
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