City of Darwin takes mental health issues very seriously, and following a tragedy in Jingili earlier this year, it became very clear to Council just how important it is for our community members to have access to a space for personal reflection.
A ‘Garden of Reflection’ has been placed at the Jingili Water Gardens where people can practice mindfulness and reflect on life’s challenges.
Lord Mayor Kon Vatskalis said that the stresses of everyday life can be overwhelming.
“We hope the Garden of Reflection will encourage everyone to stop, reflect and simply enjoy the benefits of the outdoors.
“The area is situated near the Community Orchard in Jingili Water Gardens and includes an array of locally sourced plants, flowers and trees
A focus group involving representatives from Sids and Kids, Headspace, NT Mental Health Coalition, Mental Illness Fellowship NT, NT Primary Health Network and Council Officers was formed and provided advice on the design and intent of the Garden of Reflection.
The design of the Garden of Reflection includes a message in the seating area of ‘Hope’ and four phrases in the pathway, ‘You are not alone’, ‘Never give up’, ‘May you find some comfort here’ and ‘I am in the process of becoming the best version of myself’.
The Garden of Reflection offers solace not only those who have lost a loved one, but for those who experience loss in other forms such as the loss of physical or mental health, the loss of cultural identity, the significant breakdown of family relationships among many other scenarios.
It also creates an environment for the community to visit and find solace or take the time to commemorate and cope with loss in everyday life. The aim of the space is to connect to people, allowing people to use mindfulness techniques in the space.
The garden offers a place for respite, relief, reflection and renewal for the community.
If you are experiencing issues with mental health, please call the NT Mental Health line on 1800 682 288.
