These last few months, we’ve seen an increase in people taking up gardening. With a pandemic going on, more people find themselves wanting to take control of their food supply and are starting a small home garden to avoid potential food insecurity. It comes as no surprise to some of us because, if you garden, you are aware of the many benefits it provides.
There are many studies regarding the effects of gardening on physical and mental health and they have proven to better the quality of life of those who routinely garden. This is a snapshot of what gardening does and why:
Reduces Stress - after a stressful event or day, gardening for 30 minutes can reduce your stress level.
Improves Mental Health - several studies concluded that gardening lowered the risk of dementia, improved symptoms of depression, and improved general mood. Gardening also gives some people a healthy social connection as they talk to other gardeners about methods used and plants grown.
Improves Physical Health - this low impact physical activity keeps your moving, using your hands, and breathing at a good rate. Having fresh fruits and vegetables available increases your intake of these foods and improves your diet.
Improves Longevity - several studies showed a direct correlation between gardening and longevity.
Research points to the idea that gardening, as a hobby, and in some cases as a career, improves the quality of life as people age. Gardening as therapy, known as Horticulture Therapy, has seen a rise in the past years as people are prescribed ‘walks through nature’ and ‘getting their hands dirty’ to improve their mood. The exposure to sunshine, fresh air, and being surrounded by the sights, smells and sounds of nature all contribute to the many benefits that gardening has to offer.
Gardening is an easy task to take on, although it can look overwhelming. Below are some pictures of different types of gardens you can start. Depending on your time constraints and the space you have to work with, you can find an option to fit your needs, from a small window sill herb planter to a larger square foot garden. If you are new to gardening, you can buy starter plants. Once you have spent time gardening, you dive into starting your own seeds for larger vegetables. There are a plethora of sites offering guides and videos to help you dive into this new adventure. Try it - you won’t regret it!
