Embark on a Self-Discovery Journey Through Singapore’s Greenscapes With Chen Xi

Spending time in nature has a way of keeping us grounded, offering a quiet refuge amid the noise and clarity when everything feels uncertain. Research by the National Parks Board (NParks) and its partners has shown that even brief encounters with urban green spaces can make a meaningful difference to our mental wellbeing, from reducing stress to building resilience, even among those living with depression.

Whether it is taking a quiet walk, resting under a canopy, tending to a small garden, or simply enjoying the breeze by the water, these little moments of connection with nature can do more for your mind than you might expect.

In this blogpost, we are spotlighting the six green spaces featured in local actor and artist Chen Xi’s illustrations for our latest ‘Lost To Be Found’ campaign, each a unique sanctuary that nurtures mental wellness and invites us to reconnect with ourselves. Read on more to find out about the inspiration for these spaces, as elaborated by Chen Xi below.

Explore 6 Inspiring Places of Solace

Drawing inspiration from quiet moments under trees and by the water, Chen Xi mapped his own emotional journey through places that felt both grounding and familiar. Each featured location mirrors a chapter in his path towards mental clarity, spaces where nature offered perspective, comfort, and a quiet kind of strength.

Join us as we discover these six scenic spots across our city that influenced his path and learn how each might foster your own voyage of self-discovery.

1. Singapore Botanic Gardens

Begin your journey beneath the iconic Tembusu Tree, a lasting symbol of resilience and history located in the Singapore Botanic Gardens. This majestic tree, featured on our $5 note, has witnessed our nation’s growth and change over the decades, standing strong through it all. Its deep roots and broad canopy offer a quiet space for thoughtful reflection, anchoring us to the present reality.

Here, you can slow down, breathe in the fresh air, and find a moment of peace. Whether you are with your loved ones or enjoying some quiet time alone, the gentle rustling leaves and green surroundings offer a soothing backdrop that helps you feel centred and renewed. It is a gentle reminder that lasting strength comes from staying grounded, even as you move forward.

2. East Coast Park

East Coast Park is famous for its beaches and bike trails, but tucked away are tranquil pockets like the Cicada Forest, a leafy corridor where the soft buzz of cicadas creates a natural soundtrack for mindfulness. The tall trees here cool the air and invite you to slow your pace, helping your mind find a peaceful rhythm.

A short stroll away, the Bougainvillea Garden bursts with bright colours, a striking contrast to the calm forest. This garden is alive with flowering vines that celebrate nature’s vibrancy. Standing tall among these is the Flame of the Forest, a tree known for its fiery blossoms that symbolise passion, a gentle nudge to pursue your dreams without losing sight of your well-being.

This area invites you to share quiet moments or lively conversations with your loved ones, all while feeling refreshed by the diverse landscape that lies beyond the park’s usual hustle and bustle.

3. Telok Blangah Hill

If you are looking for more than just a stroll, Telok Blangah Hill, also known as Mount Faber, presents a rewarding climb with uphill paths, long staircases, and quiet forest corridors that call for a slower pace, and encourage you to slow down, breathe deeply, and take things one step at a time, reminding you that growth often comes through persistence and effort.

As you ascend, take in the surrounding greenery, from tall, mature trees to pockets of local flora that add a sense of calm to the physical exertion. The fresh air and peaceful sounds help clear your mind, making space for reflection amid the climb.

When you reach the summit, Alkaff Mansion greets you, a beautiful historic landmark surrounded by flourishing flora that tells stories of the past. From here, sweeping views stretch across the city skyline and the vast sea, a breathtaking reward for your effort. Whether you are walking with loved ones or taking time for yourself, the ascend to the top brings a sense of perspective that stays with you even after you leave.

4. Keppel Hill

Tucked away from the city’s noise, Keppel Reservoir provides a quiet refuge framed by lush vegetation and reflective waters. Unlike Singapore’s bustling rivers, the reservoir’s calm waters mirror the surrounding greenery, creating a serene atmosphere perfect for quiet contemplation.

You and your loved ones can walk leisurely along the shaded trails, where the steady rhythm of rustling leaves and flowing water offers a gentle break from the day’s demands. It is a chance to slow your pace, clear your head, and simply be in the moment together.

Inspired by the interconnected flow of Keppel, Kallang, and Rochor waterways, this space reflects adaptability, resilience, and emotional ease. It gently reminds us that, like water, we can move with life’s currents while staying true to ourselves, and that growth often begins with simply allowing ourselves to pause.

5. Changi Bay Park

Step off the familiar boardwalk and into the wooded inland trail of Changi Bay Park, where towering Casuarina trees create a peaceful canopy just for you and your family. This lush green stretch is a lesser-known part of the park, offering a cool, shaded escape away from the busier coastal paths. As you walk, the trail gradually opens up to reveal the sandy beach and a sweeping view of the sea and sky, a breathtaking reminder of the wisdom in stepping back to see the bigger picture.

Nearby, the “Inscription of the Island” offers a meaningful moment to reflect on your journey, reminding you that true mastery involves balance—knowing when to press on and when to step back. This hidden gem is an ideal spot to reconnect, recharge, and move forward with calm confidence.

6. Pulau Ubin

A short boat ride to Pulau Ubin leads you to Puaka Hill, a natural retreat that feels worlds away from the city. Instead of rushing to the top, take a moment to pause just before the summit. Look back on how far you have come—not just on the trail, but in your own journey. This still moment invites you to see things not just from above, but from within, offering clarity through a shift in perspective.

From the top, you are rewarded with panoramic views stretching across land and sea, a visual reminder that life is vast, full of possibility, and always evolving. Bring your family or friends to share this moment. In this space, far from the rush, you will find a quiet stillness that stays with you long after you have returned home.

Together, Let’s Find Our Way Back

In the rush of everyday life, it is easy to lose touch with yourself. But as each of these green spaces shows, nature has a quiet way of bringing you back. So go ahead, step outside, slow down, and let the natural world meet you where you are. You might be surprised by what you find.

As part of this journey, we would like to invite you to vote for your favourite illustrations from Chen Xi to pledge support for our partners, Beyond the Label and Mindfull Community. Each vote will count towards a $20,000 donation to further their efforts in promoting mental wellness across our nation.

Simply visit https://www.losttobefound.sg to cast your vote by 30 September, and you could be 1 of 5 lucky winners to receive a $100 eCapitaVoucher and a limited edition ‘Lost To Be Found’ journal.

If you would like to view our ‘Lost To Be found’ illustrations in real life, you can also visit our Art Galleries at Grovve at *SCAPE, or Bugis Junction.

To find out more about the campaign, you can visit https://www.losttobefound.sg.

Together, let’s pave the way for those who are journeying on their paths of discovery.