Q: I’ve passed by Smith-Gilbert Gardens over the past year on my drives to work, and read that they are hosting “A Healthier You” through October. Would you tell me about it?
A: SGG in Kennesaw began “A Healthier You” in September but you still have through the month of October to enjoy the additional classes and workshops in addition to the other activities and collections the garden holds.
Once offered in the spring for one month that focused on gardening and vegetables, the thought process shifted to the fall with an extension of an additional month.
“For the fall we wanted to focus on getting a head start before the holidays and implementing some healthy habits and not waiting til your New Year’s resolution - cause then it’s too late,” said Vanita Keswani, guest experience manager.
“There’s always been a health and wellness component with people walking through the gardens and being able to absorb nature as part of one’s well-being,” she added.
Partnering with the Kennesaw Art and Culture Commission together are classes for adults, youth and families, for example – yoga, dance, little theatre workshops, edible birdhouses and plein (outdoor) air painting.
“The gentle yoga classes will be a wonderful opportunity for experienced yoga practitioners to deepen and slow down their physical practice and an accessible place to start for those new to yoga,” said certified instructor Gina Dropp. The family class will be especially nourishing as young yoga students explore the practice with parents and caregivers.”
The “Little Theatre” workshops are geared for those 6 years up to 15. “Young artists will be invited to explore their theatrical side through movement and games,” Dropp said. “This workshop will focus on improvisation, character, and world building with an ensemble.”
SGG has added plein air painting classes (3 hours) that will continue throughout the year. It’s a great way to capture the gardens or a favorite spot during each season, said Keswani.
Collectively with over 4,000 species of plants, bonsai and sculpture collections, walking trails and programs, “We pride ourselves on three key components of this property. That is nature, the history and art,” she said.
“People are just excited to have activities to do outdoors. Not that you wouldn’t come to the gardens and just soak it all in any way, but just to experience it in a different way to have some led instruction, said the guest experience manager. “We’ve actually had some people sign up as members so they can take advantage of the classes.”
Pricing varies and all of the programs require advance tickets. For more information, visit https://smithgilbertgardens.com/
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