How you can create a healing garden

Healing Gardens, a 2-acre expanse of woodland and perennial gardens at Stone Hill Farm in St. Charles, will be open 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. Sunday, April 10. The gardens are open to the public on set dates for the purpose of enjoying the natural wooded setting and perennial gardens. Admission cost is $5 per person and $10 per family; call for discounted group rates. In solidarity and to honor the journey, cancer survivors are always free. Donations of time or money for upkeep are welcome. Healing Gardens is cultivated and hosted by Deborah Marqui, owner of Stone Hill Farm with her husband, Buzz Marqui.

The April opening will offer a class from 2 to 3:30 p.m. on "How To Create A Healing Garden." Call (630) 377-1846 to register. The April 10 opening will also offer, weather permitting, an optional outdoor "Yoga In The Garden" class from 1 to 2 p.m. taught by Nancy May. Go to www.yogafromtheheart.org or call (815) 319-3500 to register.

Marqui, who is cancer-free from non-Hodgkin's lymphoma since 1996 and in remission from breast cancer since 2002, finds great restoration of spirit in her gardens and property and wants to share that with the public for their own rejuvenation. Visiting individuals or small groups are welcome to do as they please. No activity is required or requested. People are welcome to read, nap, draw, meditate, journal, swing or walk or simply do nothing.

Admission for cancer survivors is free, although donations of time or money for upkeep are appreciated. Groups are welcome to schedule and reserve special days to visit the gardens. Day retreats are available as are Silent Saturday mornings. Healing Gardens is at 37W249 Dean St. in St. Charles. For information, call (630) 377-1846 or visit www.healinggardensatstonehillfarm.com.