One day I came across these paeonies growing in Ueno Park in Tokyo. I’ve always been struck by how Japanese gardeners look after their plants. This collection of paeonies, absolutely unlike any display I’ve ever seen anywhere had two obvious structures sheltering them. There were bamboo roofs stretching along each bed of flowers, but in addition each plant had its own little parasol.
This image stayed with me in my work as a doctor, reminding me that one of the most powerful things a doctor can do is help a patient to feel safe. Healing starts with recognition and empathy, and moves forward with understanding and care. Any “treatments” only help if they support the body’s natural repairing and healing systems.
It also stays with me as I imagine the kind of society I would like to live in – one which nurtures, supports and shelters the inhabitants, so, in the process, maximising their potential to be healthy, to grow and to flourish.
Can we create a nurturing society which prioritises the creation and maintenance of a healthy environment?
Heroes Not Zombies 
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