Kohā
Here at the Caim we speak of Kohā.
Kohā is a Maori word which is essentially about offering, a contribution – especially one maintaining social relationships. As a verb it means to enable, aid, contribute, embrace, celebrate, nurture, acknowledge, be generous and figuratively – it is about adding to and giving life, expanding opportunities through generosity.
Hence, the importance of this being invitational in order that people do not feel pressure to be involved, but rather have a ‘desire’ to be involved.
There are regular Kohā gatherings to be involved in a range of activities from sowing, transplanting to harvest, planting fruit and trees, mowing the grass areas, tending to veg. beds and weeds. We hope everyone will find an activity within their ability and what they enjoy doing. Whether you garden or have never there is always shared learning.
The benefits of soil and plants to
health and wellbeing
There has been a huge blossoming of research into gardening recently, exploring the advantages of not just gardening but simply being in gardens themselves.
Physically relocating yourself to a garden slows the pace of life and the feeling of hands in soil helps reinforce the sense you are in a totally different place. As well as enjoying active gardening itself, many people say they benefit as well from just wandering through their gardens, seeing how things are getting on in a quiet moment of reflection and peace (Prof Harriet Gross,a psychologist at the University of Lincoln, the author of The Psychology of Gardening and the creator of a gold-medal winning design at the Chelsea Flower Show.)
Getting your hands in soil is good for you. If we start with soil we know there is a compound called geosmin, which is produced by soil-dwelling bacteria and gives soil its “earthy” or “musty” scent. We are seemingly sensitive to this and its benefits. Inhalation of geosmin has been linked to relaxation, reduced stress and enhanced cognitive function, and lower heart rate and blood pressure. Serotonin is released – the brain’s ‘happy’ transmitter and acts like an antidepressant.
Growing plants adds further benefits. Gardening can enhance memory retention by up to 20% and improve concentration. It acts as a meditative, ‘grounding’ activity in so far as it reduces negative thoughts. The physical exercise improves cardiovascular health and lowers blood pressure. Watching plants grow and harvesting food provides positive reinforcement and sense of accomplishment. There is also good social connection as places like The Caim provide opportunities to combat loneliness and build relationships.
So why not come along and join in activities at The Caim and feel the benefits of gardening!
“Gardening is important throughout life but particularly as we age. Not just because it is a great way to keep physically active, but research shows it becomes more and more central to our sense of identity and self as we get older.” (People, Places and Health. David Buck, senior fellow for public health and inequalities at The King’s Fund)
The Caim at Luthermuir 