Dargan Landscape Architects

Create Nourishing Flourishing Home Utopias

Uncategorized

Are Retiring Boomers Shaping the Permaculture Movement? Mother Earth News Thinks So…

Right On, Mother Earth News Fair.  From planetary awareness in 1970’s, to being the most hip and cool thing in sustainable home environments today, you rock!  

APril 24 SM

 

APril 11 MENews Branded

This weekend, 18-20,000 showed up in Asheville NC for 2 days of back-to-back lectures about sustainable living and all its components: permaculture/sustainable gardening, housing alternatives, energy efficient cars and really, really good food.

Last year chickens were hot, this year worms, and next year goats are predicted to rock the charts.

I remember when Mother Earth news debuted and mesmerized a particular granola-eating, intellectual, alternative lifestyle ’70s student. (That would be me). The hip and cool, bi-monthly magazine took me by the hand into the realm of renewable energy, clean water, clean air, sprouting, homemade bread, environmental awareness and women’s rights. I learned I could have my cake and eat it too; and thanks to Mother Earth News, that cake would be organic!

Yes, I think retiring boomers are shaping the sustainable gardening/permaculture movement in America. Does this matter to you? If so, read on.

Permaculture for home environments is gardening in concert with nature. It involves site planning with an eye to the future while resting lightly on the land today.
 .
So, when I received an invitation to do a permaculture demonstration at the Mother Earth News fair this weekend in Asheville North Carolina, I raised my fist and said, “Yeah baby, right on!”  At The Mother Earth News Fair, my lovely booth was soon surrounded by baby boomers of all shapes and sizes, sexes and hairstyles, outfits, smiles and notepads… They had actually done their homework before coming to the demonstration.

 Screen Shot 2015-04-13 at 10.35.08 PM
How do you do this permaculture thing and how does it relate to the regular joe?
 .
Not everyone is a designer, so I created a crash, short-course on the topic of Permaculture 101. It will be April 24 and May 15 at Dovecote in Cashiers, NC.
 .
So what is Permaculture? It is a large topic weighing-in on the health of our small planet. Without a doubt, sustainable gardening, a component of permaculture, will improve your home environment, your health and happiness.
Did you know your home environment can support your lifestyle and nourish you, so you can flourish to meet your highest and best goals in life? I didn’t.
 .
As a seasoned landscape architect, I invite my clients to make a program of their needs and describe their lifestyle. As much as I hope to grow them into fully empowered, sustainable gardening homeowners, it will not be everybody’s bag.
 .
The best-practice sustainable gardeners tend to be the baby boomers on the cusp or fully retired. 85% of my clients are truly interested. They think it would be good for them to embrace sustainable gardening and be outside more, but don’t:
  • have the time in their busy lifestyles
  • know which end of a seed to plant
  • have a clue how to organize their properties to be nimble and efficient sustainable gardens
  • know where to start
Does this sound like you? So whether or not you are baby boomer, eat granola & sprouts or wear sandals and live in a yurt… join me for Permaculture 101:  A Crash Course in Sustainable Gardening.  Early Bird Discount ends April 18.
In 3 hours, we’ll study lifelong landscape design, define your personal permaculture program elements, define available space for improvements on your property and solve functional problems.
For more please visit Dargan.com/dovecote-events or register here:
APril 24 SM

Reducing Stress Through Gardens & Pets

Reducing Stress Through Gardens & Pets
Source: Dargan Landscape Architects

While the stress of negative consequences can sometimes be what motivates us to get through the most hectic of work weeks, stress is not something to take lightly — in fact, it’s a big factor in determining your long-term health.

Most of us have lifestyles unique to us, but whether you are focusing on work, dealing with family, attempting to find personal time, or coping with lessening energy, chances are you’ve encountered some stress along the way. When we become stressed, our body reacts by releasing cortisol into the blood stream. Over time, this process has a far-reaching effect on the body and contributes to aging and other health issues.

Finding ways to effectively reduce stress is crucial in maintaining a long, happy life. Today, we want to discuss two research-supported methods to help you take a deep breath, step back, and enjoy some much needed (and stress-free) personal time.   

Gardens

Recent research suggests that when people visit gardens, their cortisol levels can be reduced. We recommend designing your landscape to help meet the challenges of every day life. For instance, a garden can lower your blood pressure and release endorphins — the “feel-good” hormones. Amazingly, a daily garden visit can also curtail the need for pain medication! 

The deeper connection you can make with your garden environment, the better. Breathe deeply, walk among and touch your plants, and feel free to meditate. It’s the perfect place to do so! 

Pets

For generations, pets have brought us comfort and companionship. Pet therapy is enlisted by therapists to rehabilitate their patients and ease depression. To attract furry friends to your landscape, try setting up birdhouses, ponds, and feeding stations.

Keeping these well-stocked is a fantastic way to attract a variety of species. Additionally, a well kept landscape is a great place for cats and dogs to roam around in and play. Across the board, animals offer multiple health benefits that can’t be ignored. 

We’d love to help come up with some ideas for a relaxing outdoor landscape of your own. Feel free to browse through our photos for inspiration or contact us at Dargan Landscape Architects to start planning.  

Tranquil Garden Events Happening in April 2015

Tranquil Garden Events Happening in April 2015
Source: Wilkerson Mill Gardens

April is bringing us much more than showers for May flowers. This month is chock-full of fabulous garden events for homeowners, gardening enthusiasts, landscape designers, and architects. You won’t want to miss out on these opportunities to play in the dirt, learn from experts, and see some of the most stunning gardens in the Southeast!

April 15-18: The Garden Conservancy Comes to Atlanta

First, we are excited to announce that the Garden Conservancy Board of Fellows will be coming to Atlanta to see Dargan gardens and more during the third week of April. 

April 16: Peachtree Garden Club House Show

Mark your calendars for this wonderful house show at 8:30 a.m. on April 16. We always recommend attending any event the Peachtree Garden Club is involved in, and this one is no different. This passionate organization is dedicated to stimulating gardening and conservation through education. 

April 20-21: Zone VIII Annual Meeting at Palmetto Garden Club in Columbia, SC 

Next, we’re looking forward to the Zone VIII Annual Meeting in Columbia, SC. These meetings are always fascinating and provide a perfect opportunity to connect and collaborate with your community. Not to mention, there are always great hands-on workshops and activities to give your green thumb some exercise.

April 28 – Cherokee Garden Club goes to Serenbe Community & Wilkerson Mill Nursery 

We are thrilled to join the Cherokee Garden Club on a special trip to Serenbe community. Located on the edge of Atlanta, the Serenbe community is a progressive residential neighborhood focused on happiness, health, and well-being through fresh food, fresh air, and a strong connection with nature. Serenbe is not only breathtakingly beautiful, but can offer incredible inspiration and education when it comes to sustainable, environmentally-designed communal living. Join us as we visit the organic gardens at Serenbe, and take in the jaw-droppingly gorgeous hydrangeas at Wilkerson Mill Nursery. 

Garden Week in Georgia may be April 19-25, but we’ll be celebrating it all month long throughout the entire Southeast! Be sure to look for me – Mary Palmer Dargan of Dargan Landscape Architects – at one or more of these events, and do come say hello! 

Tell us what garden events you’re looking forward to, or share with us how you’re celebrating Garden Week in the comments. 

How Can I Use Aromatherapy for Medicinal Purposes?

How Can I Use Aromatherapy for Medicinal Purposes?
Source: Pixabay

When practices and traditions are sustained for thousands of years, it’s a safe bet there’s a good reason why. In the case of aromatherapy, the ancient form of alternative medicine is known to benefit the mind, mood, cognitive function, and overall health.

What is Aromatherapy? 

Aromatherapy is a time-proven type of alternative medicine that uses aromatic plant compounds and essential oils to lift a person’s mood and improve their health and quality of life. What’s more, the scents involved in aromatherapy can greatly help those who suffer from interrupted or poor quality of sleep. For example, neuroscientists have discovered that the rose scent can reduce sleep disturbances. Since ancient times, mankind has utilized fragrances from nature for many purposes and continues to do so to this day. 

How does it Work?

When essential oils are used and inhaled, the part of the brain connected to smell is stimulated. Known as the olfactory system, this part of the brain sends a message to the limbic system, which retrieves our stored memories and controls our emotions. The resulting chemicals released by the brain cause the patient to feel relaxed and calm, or even invigorated! Essential oils can be used to target our sense of smell, but they can also be applied internally and topically to yield different beneficial results. 

What are Common Uses for Aromatherapy? 

While the process of aromatherapy might not work for everyone, the list of ailments it can help with is quite impressive. Here are just a few: anxiety, stress, insomnia, body aches, headaches, and muscular aches. Also, aromatherapy can help with pesky issues including circulation, digestive, menstrual, and menopausal problems. The risks of aromatherapy are low unless you suffer from certain types of allergies or illnesses. 

As licensed and experienced landscape architects, we have the expertise you need to create your very own relaxing oasis, filled with aromatic flowers that can enhance your quality of life. Contact us to discuss your plans today.