Bloom & The Gang; Lindsay’s Story

In this blog, Lindsay talks about her experience of attending Bloom’s Gardening To Feel Good Groups and the benefits of taking the feeling of the garden into her everyday life.

Joining a Bloom session

Photo; Helena Dolby

I was referred to Bloom through Mums in Need, a wonderful Sheffield based charity who support mums across South Yorkshire. I really wanted to connect with other women in an outdoor setting and Bloom offered a nice, green space to join a small group.

I felt quite nervous at first. It’d been a while since I’d been out and about, around other groups of people. But over time, I became more relaxed. After a few sessions I unfortunately fell quite unwell with my mental health. I had to take a step back for a couple of years but Bloom was always there. We stayed in touch and I was able to keep up to date with what was going on.

After I felt a bit better, I referred myself back again. I love being outside and I really like being in a garden setting. I’ve got a few pots in my own garden but it’s not very big, so the Bloom garden gives a bit more space.

But the main draw for me was being around other women in a different setting. I wasn’t really looking for a peer support group - more of a space to be myself with others, a quiet, calm space where we could naturally chat with no pressure.

A natural connection

We all support each other and it doesn’t feel forced. It’s a beautiful place so we already have one thing in common - that we’re there and enjoying nature. I can really be myself around everyone. I can sometimes struggle with feeling calm and being myself, but I haven’t felt that way at Bloom. I can truly bring my whole self to the garden without worry.

There are no barriers to being here - there’s such a mix of people of different ages with different experiences. I've liked just sitting and chatting and listening to other women, and realising that my experiences aren't as isolated as I originally felt they were.

From compost to crafts

There’s so much to do at Bloom and there’s an activity for everyone, no matter how you’re feeling or what you’re able to do. I’ve really enjoyed that I could be digging compost one day or do some potting the next, if I’m not feeling too active. I’ve also done a bit of crafting, which has been lovely.

There’s not been one thing in particular that I’ve really enjoyed more than others - it’s all been beautiful. I’ve really felt part of something and the positive impact on my mental health has been extraordinary. The routine has been brilliant for me, I look forward to coming every week.

Taking the feeling home

I can’t accurately describe how being out and around green spaces makes me feel, but physically my heart rate is slower, my thinking is clearer, and when I head home from Bloom I take the feeling of being outside with me. I feel at peace - I notice the birds singing, it’s easier to breathe, and I feel less alone with my problems.