
I was having a conversation recently, and the topic of hobbies arose. One person shared that one of their passions was growing and maintaining bonsai trees. For those unfamiliar, bonsai are miniature trees that require patience and care to grow into beautiful horticultural displays. Some take 10-15 years or more to mature fully, but all require detailed attention to thrive. No, Walmsley Employee and Family Assistance Program (EFAP) hasn't become a blog just for green thumbs, but there are important lessons we can take from bonsai that apply to mental health and well-being.
The first step in cultivating bonsai is considering their environment. Bonsai, like people, have preferences for their surroundings. Some trees flourish indoors, while others thrive outdoors, and the environment plays a crucial role in their development. Humans are no different. Mental health is significantly affected by the environment we place ourselves in. Whether it's a walk in the woods, cozying up with a good book, or spending time with loved ones, choosing spaces where we feel safe and comfortable supports our mental well-being. Deliberate choices about our surroundings are important for our mental health. Be like the bonsai and create the environment that helps you flourish.
Pruning is essential for bonsai growth—removing dead or unproductive branches allows the tree to redirect resources to where they're most needed. Similarly, we need to let go of thoughts and behaviours that no longer serve us. Holding onto negative patterns like "I’ll never achieve my goals" or "I’m unworthy of love" prevents us from evolving. However, challenging those beliefs and recognizing them for what they are—emotions, not facts—creates room for more positive self-talk. Transform limiting beliefs into ones that promote growth: "What small changes can I make to feel more fulfilled?" or "I haven’t met a partner yet, but that doesn’t diminish my worth." Be like the bonsai—prune away what stunts your growth and allow space for new, healthier perspectives to emerge.
Another important lesson from the bonsai is patience. Just as these trees take years to reach their full potential, changes to our mental health happen gradually. True growth requires consistent effort over time. Building new habits, whether that’s journaling, engaging in mindfulness practices, or setting realistic goals, creates a foundation for long-term mental wellness. Tracking your thoughts, even briefly in a journal, can help you notice personal growth. When you revisit your notes, you may be surprised by your progress. Be like the bonsai and trust in slow, deliberate growth.
World Mental Health Day is October 10th, a day to reflect on and support mental wellness. Whether for yourself or someone you care about, take a moment to explore what contributes to good mental health. You can find more information on mental health and wellness, including topics such as anxiety, depression and anger, in the Walmsley Wellness Library and other trusted mental health resources at the Canadian Mental Health Association. Like the humble bonsai, our mental well-being requires attention, nurturing, and patience.
Robert Baker, MA RCC
Walmsley EFAP