Nature heals.

It helps us combat stress, fight depression and improve mental health and wellbeing. Yet for many, nature is not accessible. This is where Nature Sacred comes in. We offer a unique model to infuse small, meaningful urban green spaces—public sanctuaries that we call Sacred Places—into cities and communities looking to heal and strengthen in lasting ways. 

"Today I became someone different. I made something very special come alive. A place where we could sit, think, get outside and get our minds together."

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Our Work

Driven by research, informed by design and rooted in over two decades’ experience working with over 130 communities from all over the country—we’ve honed a potent formula for integrating Sacred Places into built, diverse communities. We’re excited to share our model with you and all that we have learned along the way—and all that we continue to learn as a network of Sacred Places. 

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Impact Areas

While the truth stated simply is: nature heals; our understanding of how and where it can be applied is more nuanced and growing. We have assembled a collection of resources themed according to a number of pressing issues and challenges society faces today.

Overview  

Health

Explore the many ways nature benefits health and wellbeing.

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Social cohesion

Discover how green spaces help build stronger communities.

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Disaster recovery

Find out how nature is being employed to help individuals and communities cope with tragedy.

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PTSD and Recovery

Learn about how nature is being drawn into new approaches to treating “invisible wounds”.

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Design & Restorative Places

Discover how purpose-built design is being used to encourage more meaningful nature experiences.

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Urban Resilience

Get informed of what experts are saying about the need for nature in sustainable cities.

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Our Network

A kind of live lab—a network of our Sacred Places. This is a forum for sharing new programs and ideas, stories of success or lessons learned, and what works best to serve unique populations, or distinct kinds of spaces.

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What is a Firesoul?

A catalyst for change. A champion of community. A source of true inspiration. Firesouls are the ones who oversee each Sacred Place—ensuring that it’s working to best serve its people through nature. Beauty. Respite. And much more.

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 Sacred Places

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 Nature in Action

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Get Started

Perhaps you’ve been eyeing a vacant lot that’s just begging for green space. Or a neglected corner, ripe for a little pocket garden. Maybe you aren’t even sure yet—but you know your community could use some peace. Mindful reflection. Unity. Whatever the case, we’ve honed a method rooted in accessibility. These are small, often modest, green spaces meant to be folded into existing landscapes. See what we mean.

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About Us

We’re committed to helping people connect with nature in their daily lives. Everything we do serves up to inspiring, informing and guiding communities to infuse green spaces—creatively, meaningfully and often modestly—in the name of improved health. Equitable cities. Peaceful communities. 

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