Yume Japanese Gardens of Tucson is one of the first in the nation to institute a Stroll-for-Well-Being program of reflective garden walks, ideal for people suffering emotional upset because of a stressful transition in life, which can include episodes such as depression, mental exhaustion, PTSD, retirement and aging, severe illness or the loss of a loved one or pet.

The distinctively restorative powers of Japanese garden walks have been scientifically studied and can provide people with a rich and transformative therapeutic experience. For example, Japanese garden viewing has been shown to improve the symptoms and moods of Alzheimer’s patients. Japanese studies of EKG results prove that people are more relaxed in Japanese gardens than in any other gardens and feel less stressed by life.

Participants in U.S. studies report that walking through a Japanese garden setting as little as twice a week for six weeks and journaling about the experience reduces their feelings of sadness, hopelessness, fear and loneliness, and amplifies their feelings of happiness, joy and emotional strength.

Location: 2130 N. Alvernon Way, Tucson. The gardens are open from October 1 through May 3. For more information, call 520-272-3200 or visit YumeGardens.org.