Using ecological gardening to promote nature connection, wellbeing, and group building: a pilot service using experiential learning, mindful activities, and reflection to study the effects of nature and gardening together.

Abstract

This thesis project commissioned by Soltorp Ecolodge Oy aimed to create a cohesive course that combines ecological gardening with the benefits of group and nature. The course is built on service design, connection to nature, mindfulness, belonging, small group principles, and experiential learning. The methods included the design and implementation of the pilot service, participant observation, semi-structured interviews combined with photo elicitation method and questionnaires. Soltorp Ecolodge Oy must change to stay viable and offer new services for customers. The commissioner sees a rising demand for alternative services. The garden was underused, but the pilot course helped Soltorp move towards providing nature-based services.

Nature has always been a source of inspiration for artists and has provided resources, shelter, and sustenance for life on earth. However, human overconsumption of natural resources has caused a challenge for nature and its biodiversity. This has resulted in humanity becoming increasingly disconnected from nature and each other. Although artificial intelligence has been used to foster connection, it cannot replace the fact that humans are dependent on nature and each other. The course intended to foster this connection. The results of the thesis showed that all participants gained valuable learning experiences related to social skills and personal growth to the acquisition of new gardening skills.

The outputs of this thesis project are a multiday course program, thematic analysis of participant experiences of the pilot course, Angelica’s model for creating wellbeing and nature connection services as well as feedback of the implemented course.