Rhubarb Harvest, Greenhouse Meditation & Good Vibes at the SBS Farm

As Mental Health Awareness Month draws to a close, we have spent a lot of time reflecting on the conversations, experiences, and moments we have shared together throughout the month at S.T.E.P. by S.T.E.P., Inc. But the truth is, the themes we focus on during Mental Health Awareness Month are not things we talk about only during the month of May. They are part of the work we do every single day at SBS through connection, self-reflection, support, growth, and community.

This week, we spent another meaningful day together at the SBS Farm & Greenhouse. Although it was a little cooler than last week, around 63 degrees, the fresh air and sunshine still felt wonderful. When the clouds moved in, there was definitely a chill in the air, but every time the sun came back out, the warmth on our faces reminded us how important it is to slow down, step outside, and reconnect with nature and with each other.

There has been so much new growth happening at the farm. The greenhouse is filling with life, the fields are beginning to take shape, and Noah and Steve have been hard at work installing the irrigation system for the cabbage and beans that have already been planted. One of the most exciting parts of the day was seeing how much the seeds we planted just last week had already grown. It was amazing to see tiny sprouts beginning to push their way through the soil so quickly and to witness the progress happening all around us.

Because of the cooler weather, we decided to hold our weekly meditation right inside the greenhouse surrounded by all of the new growth around us. Sitting together among the plants, soil, fresh air, and sunlight created such a peaceful atmosphere. Someone joked that people say talking to plants and playing music helps them grow, so we decided to spread a little love and encouragement to the greenhouse while we were there.

During our meditation and discussion, we reflected on how growth in nature is not so different from growth within ourselves. We talked about how growth takes patience, care, rest, nourishment, protection, sunlight, water, and trust in the process. Nothing blooms overnight, whether we are talking about plants or people.

We also revisited many of the conversations we have been having throughout the week about values, alignment, and self-awareness. We asked ourselves what is truly important and meaningful in our lives and whether our actions reflect those values. What made these discussions so powerful was that they were approached without judgment or criticism, but with honesty and self-reflection. We talked about how awareness is often the first step toward growth and change.

Another important topic this week was nutrition and the connection between our physical and mental health. Together, we are becoming more mindful about the choices we make and exploring healthier habits that support both body and mind. Members harvested rhubarb from the farm and learned how to properly harvest it, including removing the leaves and storing the stalks in water to help keep them fresh until we use them in the kitchen next week. After harvesting, everyone brought the rhubarb back to 1515 Knox Street, where we prepared and preserved it together for our upcoming cooking class.

There has been a lot of excitement as we look through recipes together and discuss small changes we can make to support healthier living while still creating meals that feel comforting and enjoyable. We cannot wait to share what we create in the kitchen next Wednesday using the rhubarb we harvested together.

One thing everyone agreed on this week was how grateful we are for the support network we have built together. While the fresh air, blue skies, sunshine, birds, and sounds of nature made our meditation especially meaningful, many members shared that the best part of the day was simply being together and spending quality time with one another.

Every Thursday, we visit the SBS Farm to check on the plants, spend time outdoors, and hold our weekly meditation surrounded by nature. We welcome anyone from the community to join us, and if transportation is a concern, simply reach out to us and we will make sure you have a way to get there.

Growth happens best when people feel supported, connected, and cared for, and that is something we will continue working toward together every single day — not just during Mental Health Awareness Month, but all year long.

We are already looking forward to next Wednesday’s cooking class and cannot wait to share what we create together using the rhubarb from this week’s harvest.