current location in January 2004, they
had a vision for the location's outdoor
property in Beachwood. In 2005, the quarter-acre
of land, once weeds and rocks, was converted
into Norma's Garden, a restorative healing garden
that is truly one of Beachwood's hidden treasures.
landscape architecture firm, the
garden has designated spots for
meditation and reflection as well
as 11 separate spaces designed to
be an extension of the supportive,
welcoming programs that are
offered by The Gathering Place.
The garden was given its name
because of a sizable contribution
made to the organization by Ernie
Siegler after his wife, Norma, lost
her life to cancer.
nials and grasses and more than
20 species of trees. Specifically
designed to stimulate the senses,
incorporate sound, touch, taste,
sight and texture. Elements also
signify earth, wind, water and fire.
carefully designed. Nothing was
left to chance. When you enter,
here's what you see:
by two labyrinth-inspired gates
whose concentric steel circles
represent the energy around all
things. The sacred patterns allow
for finger tracing, which is a meta-
phor for looking inside one's inner
outer world feeling renewed and
rejuvenated. This area is called the
Walk of Friends because engraved
plaques recognize those who
helped make this garden possible.
building, is often used by individ-
uals or large groups for special
programming, art therapy or just
and comfortable furniture, provid-
ing a tranquil, back-yard space to
enjoy the nature that surrounds it.
for both play and healing arts,
including yoga and tai-chi. Sur-
rounding the grass are the four
cardinal directions, acknowledged
with four archetypal elements.
They are earth (east), fire (south),