Gardening has long been known for its ability to soothe the soul and promote overall well-being. Although for a long time, I believed it was a luxurious leisure activity of the retired, I now firmly built it into my weekly routine. I don’t have time to garden every day but it is part of my weekly self care toolkit. I do it to escape the noise and business inside the house. Some days I use it to distract my little humans and get them engaged with their hands and their minds and other days I will give a spare hour or two over to it at the weekend. My gardening skills are beyond limited so I was fortunate enough to have inherited a garden which I am now the custodian of.
This includes a rhubarb plant that I am far too emotionally connected to and some herbs, onions, garlic, strawberries, raspberries and a few other bits and bobs. One of the rewards I love the most is the free flowers I get from about April to October. My bouquets are random in curation and design but they are well, mine and I am incredibly proud of them and me for growing and surviving and thriving. In my opinion, a little science obviously here are just a few of the benefits that come with getting your hands dirty in the garden.
Mindfulness
One of the most obvious benefits of gardening is its ability to promote mindfulness. When you’re tending to your plants, you’re forced to slow down and focus on the task at hand. This can be incredibly therapeutic, allowing you to clear your mind and be present in the moment.
Mental Stimulation
Gardening also provides an opportunity for mental stimulation. As you learn about different plants and how to care for them, you’re constantly challenging your brain and expanding your knowledge. This can be especially beneficial for older adults looking to keep their minds sharp.
Creativity
Gardening is also a great outlet for creativity. Whether you’re designing a new layout for your garden or experimenting with different colour combinations, there’s always room for self-expression in the garden.
Immunity from the Soil
Believe it or not, gardening can also boost your immune system. Exposure to soil can help your body build up a resistance to certain pathogens, which can help keep you healthy in the long run.
Connection to Land and Nature
For many people, gardening is a way to connect with the land and with nature. It provides a sense of grounding and can be especially beneficial for those who live in urban areas and don’t have access to green spaces.
Eating Fruits and Vegetables with no Chemicals
Growing your own fruits and vegetables also allows you to eat healthier, without worrying about the chemicals and pesticides that are often found in store-bought produce. This can have a significant impact on your overall health and wellbeing.
Lower Carbon Footprint and Better for the Planet
Gardening is also a planet-conscious activity, as it allows you to lower your carbon footprint and do your part to protect the environment. By growing your own food, you’re reducing the need for transportation and packaging, which can have a significant impact on the planet.
Nurturing and Caring for Something Else is Good for Wellbeing
Finally, gardening is simply good for your overall well being because it allows you to nurture and care for something else. This can be incredibly rewarding and can provide a sense of purpose and fulfilment that is often lacking in our modern, fast-paced lives.
In conclusion, gardening has a wide range of benefits when it comes to promoting holistic wellbeing. From promoting mindfulness and mental stimulation to boosting immunity and providing a connection to nature, there are many reasons to start your own garden today. So get outside, get your hands dirty, and see just how much gardening can do for your overall health and wellbeing.
References:
- Uchino, B. N., Cacioppo, J. T., & Kiecolt-Glaser, J. K. (1996). The relationship between social support and physiological processes: a review with emphasis on underlying mechanisms and implications for health. Psychophysiology, 33(2), 143-156.
- Cohen, S., & Wills, T. A. (1985). Stress, social support, and the buffering hypothesis. Psychological Bulletin, 98(2), 310-357.
- Glaser, R., Kiecolt-Glaser
