Abstract
Abstract
The purpose of this study is to investigate the perceived benefits of garden colony activities. A garden colony is a collection of adjacent plots of land primarily for the purpose of gardening. The concept of a garden colony seems to exist primarily in the Czech and Slovak Republics, a historical heritage from Czechoslovakia. The methodology of this research consists of observations, interviews, questionnaires, and a focus group. As a result of this research, we confirm with others that gardening can be a natural and safe way to meet the lifelong demands for a healthy life. Second, having a space within a garden colony adds a sense of purpose, identity, and meaning to one's life. Third, this area of nature is also an oasis for interaction with other gardeners and for personal entertainment with friends and family. Fourth, this place provides a source of restoration as a result of rest, escape, and quiet. In conclusion, we recommend the promotion of gardening within a colony as a natural physical activity for lifelong health. The garden colony can provide a place for individual restoration; this urban oasis offers a way to maintain and promote lifelong healthy living, and it makes an important contribution to retirement by adding a sense of meaning and purpose. Key Words: Gardening—Healthy lifestyle—Leisure—Physical activity—Czech Republic.
Get full access to this article
View all access options for this article.
