5 things to do at the newly opened Therapeutic Garden @ Bedok Reservoir Park

The National Parks Board (NParks) opened two new therapeutic gardens at Bedok Reservoir Park and Pasir Ris Park on Feb 28 – the first two in the East of Singapore. 

This brings the total number of therapeutic gardens in the network to nine.

Since 2016, NParks has been launching more specially designed outdoor gardens to meet the physical, psychological and social needs of park users.

Through the implementation of evidence-based design principles, the gardens have been deliberately planned to facilitate visitors’ interactions with nature and improve their well-being.

According to four evidence-based research pieces NParks conducted between 2018 to 2021, it’s been proven that passive exposure to therapeutic nature enhances mental resilience and induces positive changes in moods.

For the newly opened therapeutic garden @ Bedok Reservoir Park, it specifically targets the elderly and aims to help strengthen their mobility and stamina while engaging their minds.

That said, anyone can enter to simply enjoy the space. Here’s a quick look at the garden along with some activities you can partake in:

Upon entering the therapeutic garden, you’ll be greeted by an inter-generational fitness corner on your right with equipment such as an arm cycler and body twister.

There’s also a short flight of stairs leading to a ramp that is meant to facilitate outdoor physiotherapy sessions.

If you’d rather do something more laidback, you can head to the pavilion where the water feature is located.

Take a seat at one of the many benches and tune in to the soothing sound of water flowing and birds chirping.

The therapeutic garden @ Bedok Reservoir Park is the first to have the interactive rock garden where you can try your hand at rock balancing with the various rocks provided at the gravel pit.

Rock balancing has been proven to strengthen the mental well-being, mindfulness, motor skills, and balance of individuals.

There’s also a space designed for wheelchair users to enjoy the activity.

As the rocks can be quite dirty, wash your hands at the toilet outside. All therapeutic gardens have been conveniently located near a public restroom for accessibility.

Quite literally, the therapeutic garden encourages you to slow down and appreciate the various shrubs and flowers which have been sorted according to their fragrances, colours and textures.

Once the COVID-19 situation has stabilised, NParks intends to hold therapeutic horticultural activities with raised planter boxes. Such activities would include scent bag making, flower and leaf pressing, and gardening.

Get a breath of fresh air as you enjoy an unobstructed, scenic view of the reservoir.

The therapeutic garden @ Bedok Reservoir Park is located in front of Carpark B and is now open to the public. Admission is free for all.