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. 

"There needs to be more true outlets for secrets, desires and confessions. I am glad this place, this book, is one. It is a less indulgent form of therapy and tiny step towards releasing the thoughts, desires, which haunt you."

More about this Bench Story   

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. 

Learn More

 Recent Articles

View All   

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.

Learn More   

Social cohesion

Discover how green spaces help build stronger communities.

Learn More   

Disaster recovery

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

Learn More   

PTSD and Recovery

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

Learn More   

Design & Restorative Places

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

Learn More   

Urban Resilience

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

Learn More   

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.

Learn More  

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.

Meet our Firesouls   Become a Firesoul  

 Sacred Places

View All   

 Nature in Action

View All   

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.

Click Here to Begin   

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. 

Learn More