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As we maneuver through our second year of the pandemic, we are all looking for signs of hope and for an end to these difficult times.  In keeping with this sentiment, we have turned our attention to creating more outdoor space for our clients, volunteers, and the general public to enjoy. Thanks to a dedicated and imaginative group of volunteers, staff, and local businesses,  we are proud to announce that we have started the creation of both a labyrinth and a healing garden at hospice.

With the help of Kemptville Fencing and Decks a circular healing garden with paths leading into a treed labyrinth are being created in and around the wooded oasis in our backyard. Jonah Robinson Landscape have generously donated a 1 tonne bag of landscaping rocks to help define the Labyrinth path and lead you into the centre.

Have you ever walked a labyrinth? It has no tricks to it and no dead ends. Unlike a maze where you may feel lost, the labyrinth can help you find your way. 

A labyrinth is a complex path that leads from a beginning point to a center and it combines the imagery of the circle and the spiral into a meandering but purposeful path. It can represent a journey to our own center and back again out into the world and has long been used as a meditation tool.

The Healing Garden has been formed in the shape of a circle to symbolize life, connection, and eternity. Within this circle there are quadrants representing the 4 directions and the 4 elements. The healing circle can be visited to care for our mental, emotional, spiritual and physical health and can offer a peaceful time in nature to help us restore our balance and harmony. 

We are eager to have you enjoy this safe, accessible, outdoor space where you can run, dance, sit, meditate, pray, and play. Some of you may come with questions, others to just slow down and take time out from a busy life. Some may come to find strength to take the next step, and many may come during times of grief and loss. 

We look forward to inviting you in the coming months to see and experience this unique and evolving space; one where you can simply relax and be present. These programs could not be possible without the dedication, creativity, and kindness of the Beth Donovan Hospice volunteers. Perhaps joining the Hospice as a volunteer would help you find the connection, comfort, and sense of community you are longing for? For more information about volunteering or getting involved, please visit our  website at www.bethdonovanhospice.ca or call 613-258-9611.

Calm Restored

Join Beth Donovan Hospice for a free Guided Meditation Series where you can breathe, unwind, and enjoy a time of calm and peace from the comfort of your own home. 

Even if you have never tried meditation before, this is a greast opportunity to explore the potential benefits of this practice. While there is some mystery and confusion surrounding the meditation, the truth is that meditation is something anyone can do! It can be learned in just a few minutes, and the benefits can be felt immediately. Many people report feeling an increased sense of relaxation, concentration, and connection when they initiate a mediation practice.

There are many forms of meditation, but simple mindfulness is one of the easiest to implement. The standard approach is to sit or lie down comfortably, close your eyes, and focus on  your breathing. The goal is to try to stay in the moment and bring your attention back to the present whenever your focus starts to drift away. Your mind will drift, but that doesn't mean you're doing it wrong. With a bit of practice and guidance, your mind will settle, and you will gain a greater sense of calm and peace. 

BDH invites you to join them for a series of 20-minute guided meditations on Tuesday evening at 7:00 via zoom. The series runs from September 21st until December 7th. No experience is needed. You are welcome to come each week or join intermittently when it is convenient for you. For more information and to register, please contact This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it..

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