When Professor Worn asked about what each of our ideas about a therapeutic garden or a therapeutic environment was, I stated that for me it was a natural setting than a series of potted plants and trimmed hedges.
I support the concept of biophilia and find myself always planning a trip to a natural preserve that provides a special opportunity for me rejuvenate and heal. This spring break offered me a chance to visit the cities of Austin and San Antonio and getting the Hamilton pool therapy was on my list!
After a quarter mile down the trail , was this magnificent stretch of Cypress trees along the stream. At the end of this stream was a giant dome that opened up into the river. It was just surreal - the emerald green pool, the secluded beach and the sand, the limestone dome with stalactites on the ceiling. It is a scenic natural swimming pool in a canyon below a 50 feet waterfall, surrounded by a grotto. Hamilton pool is a part of the Balcones Canyonlands Preserve and is a protected environment. I have not come across a place so beautiful as yet.
Although the pool has an increased visitor use, they have restricted the number of visitors and there are limited parking spots available. The reason for this is the sustainable capacity of the pool is already being exceeded as with the increased visitor use, plants, water quality and the visitor experience are all at risk. This place couldn’t have been experienced in the same way after having a heavy volume of human conversations. It would take away from the therapy it provides under these restrictions.
The development of urban areas has reduced natural environments globally and so it is essential to preserve them. Places like the Hamilton pool are unique and the fact that it is a natural feature which can be continued to be an unforgettable memory for generations to come, provided it’s been enjoyed responsibly!
Thanks for sharing this Noopur. Sad that the therapeutic value of these settings is so at risk from overuse.