Understand the Root, Not Just the Behavior.
The Living Garden Framework™
The Institute is home to The Living Garden Framework™, an evidence-informed educational model created by Barbara Diaz.
The Framework translates research and theoretical perspectives into practical learning about how experiences, relationships, environments, and body responses shape emotions, behavior, identity, and choices.
The Institute's work is educational, not clinical therapy or treatment.
The Framework
Five Interconnected Systems. One Whole Person.
One WholePerson
The Journey
The Living Garden Growth Journey™
- 01Protection
- 02Awareness
- 03Reflection
- 04Practice and Alignment
- 05Purposeful Agency
Growth is non-linear. People may revisit stages as their needs and circumstances change.
Foundations
Foundations of the Framework
The Framework brings together research and theoretical perspectives from psychology, sociology, human development, learning, and stress physiology.
Its foundations include attachment, developmental ecology, psychosocial and cognitive development, human needs, sociocultural learning, person-centered growth, resilience, and trauma-informed education.
Polyvagal Theory and body-oriented perspectives are among its theoretical influences.
Research and feedback from community work related to the Framework.
Explore the research foundationsIn Practice
One Institute. One Framework. Many Pathways.
The Institute is the organization. The Framework is the educational model. Programs, services, and resources put the model into practice. Partnerships bring the work into schools, organizations, and communities.
All programs and services are available by request and customized to the needs of the individual, group, or organization.
Service priorities
- Caregiver Workshops
- Staff / Educator Training
- Curriculum Development and Educational Consulting
Questions
Questions about the Framework
The Institute's work is educational, not clinical therapy or treatment.
Next step
Bring the Framework to your setting
Request a customized educational engagement for your audience, goals, and setting.
Plant. Reflect. Connect. Grow.