Have you ever heard of the concept of mindfulness, and wondered what it is? Mindfulness is paying full attention to what is going on in you and outside you, moment by moment, without judgment. It means you observe your thoughts, feelings, and the sensations of taste, touch, smell, sight and sound while being fully aware of your surroundings. It is essentially a technique to help you to become less stressed and more grateful for the everyday beauty, kindness, and love around you.
One of the fantastic initiatives of the Goulburn Mulwaree Youth Council is the creation of a mindfulness garden at Victoria Park. The area now incorporates a conversation pit and a garden where youth and other community members can relax, chat and enjoy the surroundings of Victoria Park. The mindfulness garden was funded principally by the Council as well as a further $15,000 one off grant from the NSW Government.
Youth Mayor Charlotte Hargan said the project will be a significant step towards breaking down stigma around mental health in our community.
“It is fantastic to see the garden finally finished and ready to use. It is truly a credit to all involved and is reflective of Council’s commitment to support youth projects. I hope that, in such a time of turmoil in our world, this garden offers a quiet place of reflection and an opportunity to seek support for all members of the community, ” Ms Hargan said.
To learn more about mindfulness, please go to Mindfulness and mental health | healthdirect. To visit the mindfulness garden in Goulburn, please go to the southwestern side of the rose gardens within Victoria Park, in close proximity to Deccan Street.
