Therapeutic Horticulture with Xin Kai

About This Workshop

Therapeutic horticulture is a powerful way to enhance well-being through meaningful engagement with plants and nature. Backed by research, gardening and green spaces have been shown to reduce stress, improve mental clarity, and foster emotional resilience. Trailblazing this journey is Tham Xin Kai, a pioneering Horticultural Therapist in Singapore, and the founder and principal of Terrapy SG, a socially driven enterprise dedicated to harnessing the practice of horticultural therapy and other nature-based interventions to support diverse populations. Trained as a Landscape Architect, he has designed many therapeutic gardens for parks, schools, and healthcare facilities across Singapore. Xin Kai received his training in horticultural therapy in the United States, having served at New York University Langone Health and Wilmot Botanic Garden. He also lectures at local institutions, sharing his expertise in horticultural therapy and therapeutic landscape design. In this talk, Xin Kai will share the benefits of therapeutic horticulture, its applications in daily life and various settings, and how simple plant-based activities can promote relaxation, mindfulness, and overall health. Xin Kai will also guide participants on a hands-on experience of making a hapa zome (leaf pounding) activity at the end of the session.