Health Research Institute
Tree of Life Garden
The “Tree of Life” garden and vegetable gardens, along with the other Tilth Certified acres, reside under the auspices and protection of the Health Research Institute (HRI). HRI is a non-profit, tax-exempt, charitable trust that is dedicated to the principles of imparting personal responsibility toward the restoration of human and planetary health.The viability of the gardens depends largely upon support from our local community. Volunteer programs, along with internship and apprenticeship programs, have contributed significantly to the development and success of the WellSprings environmental restoration and educational projects.
Gallery of Features
The Labyrinth Walk
Central Reflection Hub
Educational Flora Path
Garden Significance
Symbolism
Sculptured in the shape of the Kabalistic Tree of Life, the specimen herb garden—or hortus medicus— symbolizes the interrelation and interdependence of all forces within Nature and within the human body. Medicinal herbs have been systematic placed within the garden in the region that corresponds to the bio-energetic qualities of the plant, of the human energy system, and of Nature.
Ecology
Functioning as a specimen herb garden, it promotes biodiversity and serves as a living laboratory for environmental restoration and stewardship.
Healing & Education
By studying the location of the plant in relation to the eleven spherot grid, the Tree of Life garden becomes a classroom where students are able to study botany, human anatomy and physiology, pharmacognosy, and the ancient Kabalah. The Hortus medicus features the botanical specimens that have served mankind in health over the last several thousand years.
The Three Sacred
Functions of the Garden
The Tree of Life Garden (TOLG) is always serving three sacred purposes at once.
First, it is a living garden that gently brings people back into direct relationship with the wonders of nature.
Second, it is an educational garden—a true Hortus Medicus—where we share with the public the remarkable healing powers of plants and the wisdom of natural healing methods.
Third it is a healing and meditation garden, where people can reconnect and restore themselves by walking, meditating, and working among the beds, giving life to the Hermetic axiom: “As above, so below, and as below, so above.”