THE NATIONAL Garden Scheme has released new research as part of the charity’s latest campaign, Open the garden gate to wellbeing, which reveals visiting a private garden is good for the soul.

In a recent survey from England and Wales more than 85 per cent of supporters of the NGS reported that being in a National Garden Scheme garden has a positive impact on their mental wellbeing and eight out of 10 feel happier after visiting than before.

Emily Hodge, a health psychology specialist, coach and therapist, who supports people’s health and wellbeing, said: “With our worlds often full to the brim, whether from families, work or commitments, it’s important to take care of our mental wellbeing.

"Garden visiting is great because it actually offers many ways to do this in one activity.

"Taking time out, being outside, connecting with nature and other people, being present and mindful, and learning about the space you’re in, are all part of visiting a garden – and are recommended ways to build resilience, re-charge your batteries and feel happier.”

Open the garden gate to wellbeing is being launched during the charity’s annual Gardens and Health Week (August 18 – 24), and highlights the impact of gardens on mental wellbeing and encourages people to visit a private garden as an act of self-care.

This week in Powys there are 15 gardens where you can arrange a visit at a time to suit you as well as Ceunant at Llanidloes, so there is plenty of opportunity to take care of yourself as well as others because by visiting an NGS garden you are supporting caring charities including Macmillan Cancer Support, Marie Curie, Hospice UK.

Ceunant is a four acre riverside garden started in 2013 in a beautiful setting on River Severn just seven miles from the source.

Here you can walk along a shady riverside path, admire the late roses, see the fruit forming in the orchard and examine all kinds of seed heads left to encourage wild life.

Winding slate and gravel paths lead around the garden past a sleeping mud maid, hobbit door and window.

A developing garden full of unusual features, new areas being added all the time; since the July opening a ‘Swiss Chalet’ bug hotel and vintage block and tackle over the brook have been added.

Ceunant, Old Hall, Llanidloes, SY18 6PW, is open on from 1pm to 5 pm on both Saturday and Sunday, August 18 and 19; admission £4, children free.

Discover more about the impact of garden visiting on mental wellbeing: ngs.org.uk/gardensandhealth