THE SOUL GARDEN: Creating Green Spaces for Inner Growth & Spiritual Renewal

Norfolk, former president of the Osteopathic Association of Great Britain and Fellow of the Royal Society of Health, observed a clear trend during 40 years of London health-care practice. Although his patients came from all walks of life, those who were gardeners enjoyed an above-average degree of physical and mental well-being. In 12 compelling and gentle how-to chapters, Norfolk essentially makes the same argument that Joni Mitchell did: "We've got to get ourselves back to the garden." The "soul garden," an envisioned place, has special attributes that make that spot, no matter how big or small, a destination of rejuvenation, wildness, serenity, variety, imperfection, play, spiritual and physical stimulation and mental rest. A fine armchair read, Norfolk's prose itself is an interesting tramp across a varied landscape, embracing many cultures, eras and beliefs, plus topographies of the body and soul. This heterogeneity of examples ultimately makes the most compelling case for his argument. He also suggests methods for anyone of any age, even the city dweller, to seek out and share the Divine in a garden. Confirmed gardeners and spiritual seekers will enjoy this volume, as will those who are uncertain about "getting their hands dirty." Norfolk writes for all our sakes, and his potent summons rings true: "Our crusade must be to create a better world today. We must form a bouquet with the flowers within our grasp." (June)