Art-Reach Staff Picks for Mental Health this Season
Many of us woke up on New Years’ Day, 2021 with mixed feelings; excited to put 2020 behind us, but fearful of a long, isolated winter ahead. While navigating the pandemic at this stage may seem routine to many, January through March are often recorded as the coldest and darkest months. Psychologist and researcher, Dana Rose Garfin at the University of California, is raising awareness, “Isolation has been associated with an increase in distress, depression, and anxiety.”
Art-Reach recognized an opportunity to elaborate on a recent NPR piece: “Don’t Let The Pandemic Winter Get You Down: 9 Creative Ways To Socialize Safely” with a list of Staff Picks for the top two suggestions: Embrace the Cold and Join a local Outdoor Organization. These picks stretch throughout southeastern Pennsylvania, they are ACCESS Philly partners and have brought each of us tremendous solace, fresh air, and much-needed space. So break out the long johns, pack a thermos, a camera, some binoculars, and explore. We hope this list brings you a prescription to fight against isolation. Share your winter adventures with us on social media @ArtReachPhilly
- John’s Pick: Glen Foerd on the Delaware “Growing up in the Northeast, Glen Foerd was always one of those places that transfixed me – away from the hustle and bustle of urban life, surrounded by nature, and lost in the sound of river.”Glen Foerd on the Delaware works with Philadelphia Parks and Recreation to steward 18 acres of riverfront land and the buildings upon it. Glen Foerd is listed on the National Register of Historic Places. The grounds also qualify as a historic arboretum. Click here to learn more about Glen Foerd.
- Lauren’s Pick: Bartram’s Garden“They have the oldest Ginko tree on the continent of North America, how cool is that?”Bartram’s Garden is a 45-acre National Historic Landmark, operated by the John Bartram Association in cooperation with Philadelphia Parks and Recreation. Click here to learn more about Bartram’s Gardens.
- Kelly’s Pick: Tyler Arboretum “I love getting transported to a peaceful place on their trails. Who know’s what you’ll come across-a springhouse hundreds of years old or a pack of friendly goats! If you visit in January be sure to bring a nonperishable for their food drive!”
Located in the heart of Delaware County, PA, Tyler Arboretum is a place of natural beauty and history dating back to the time of William Penn. Today, Tyler serves the Greater Philadelphia region through horticulture, education, and the preservation of natural lands. Learn more about Tyler Arboretum.
- Charlie’s Pick: Longwood Gardens “A trip to Longwood Gardens is always the perfect escape from city life and a time to reconnect with nature’s beauty.”Experience exquisite Gardens that elevate the art of horticulture amid the relaxing beauty of Longwood. Click here to learn more about Longwood Gardens.
- Alex’s Pick: Morris Arboretum “Morris Arboretum has tons of space for a socially-distanced outing–or picnic!”Spend time with family and friends exploring Morris Arboretum’s 92-acre lush and colorful gardens. Discover your favorite garden spaces and learn from 12,000 labeled plants, trees and flowers. Click here to learn more about Morris Arboretum.
- Katies’ Pick: John James Audubon Center at Mills Grove “I have been able to build birding skills and recognize chips and calls with my continued visits over the past year- they even have a wheelchair accessible bird blind.”Connect with nature and discover the sounds, traits, and habits of birds through dynamic exhibits for all ages and learning abilities. Click here to learn more about John Hames Audubon Center at Mills Grove.
- Honorable Mention: Natural Lands
Natural Lands is a non-profit organization that saves open space, cares for nature, and connects people to the outdoors in eastern Pennsylvania and southern New Jersey. Click here to learn more about Natural Lands.
