April Showers Bring May Flowers: The Benefits of Gardening for Your Health
Gardening is deeply rooted in scientific and medicinal traditions. For generations, gardens have provided more than just sustenance; they have also been a wellspring of natural treatments for everyday health challenges. It is widely recognized that an outdoor lifestyle combined with moderate physical activity can lead to a longer life, and gardening is a simple way to achieve this. If you engage in gardening, you benefit from regular low-intensity physical activity almost every day. But what are the other health benefits of gardening and the gardens themselves?
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Supporting body and mind
A gym right outside your window!
A busy day in the garden is an excellent source of exercise. Gardening involves useful movement that simulates a whole-body workout. You do squats and lunges while weeding. Carrying mulch bags and other materials requires huge muscular groups. Digging, raking, and using a push mower may be physically demanding exercises.
If you're not used to these sorts of activities, you're likely to feel sore after a long day of gardening. Gardening may additionally assist you gain balance, strength, and flexibility.
Gardening tasks might be useful if mobility is difficult. There are several ways to engage if you look outside the box. If you suffer from back problems, try a tiny stool or elevated garden beds. You can use a shovel or rake to brace your knees while squatting. Smaller pots are lighter and simpler to transport than larger ones. Purchase smaller packages of mulch or dirt that are easier to transport. [1]
Gardening goes beyond working out.
Gardens are unique settings that might offer healing properties.
A vast amount of data suggests that spending time in a green setting can reduce stress and increase overall well-being. Research supports the idea that gardening can help promote positive ageing. It found that both actively gardening and just spending time in a garden are beneficial. Simply being in contact with nature plays a crucial role in achieving therapeutic benefits [2]
Gardening is great for health because it mixes physical exercise with time spent outdoors and socializing. Being in the sun can lower blood pressure and boost vitamin D levels, especially in the summer. Gardening projects that bring people together can help reduce loneliness and may even slow the symptoms of dementia, thanks to the mix of socializing and physical activity. Gardening can also be therapeutic for people recovering from conditions like heart attacks or strokes, often providing a more enjoyable and lasting form of exercise than traditional therapy. Additionally, for some, gardening offers a path to employment. There are programs where volunteers assist older people with their gardens, benefiting both through social interaction and sharing the garden's produce. [3]
Fresh produce
Gardening enhances dietary habits by providing direct access to a range of fresh, nutrient-rich fruits, vegetables, and herbs, leading to an increase in the consumption of healthy foods. The hands-on experience of growing and harvesting one's produce tends to foster a preference for these natural, homegrown items over processed foods, encouraging a diverse and healthier diet. Additionally, gardeners who invest time and effort into cultivating their food are more likely to appreciate and consume it, often opting for organic, chemical-free growing practices. The educational aspects of gardening also promote an understanding of nutrition and seasonality, supporting more mindful eating habits. Furthermore, the economic benefits of growing food at home can make a varied and nutritious diet more accessible, while the psychological rewards of eating what one has grown can lead to more frequent inclusion of these foods in daily meals. [4]
Gardening Safety
Gardening is a great way to get physical activity and beautify your space. However, you should protect yourself and take proper precautions when you are outside working in your garden.
- Wear Protective Gear: Wear durable gloves to protect your hands from thorns and splinters, and opt for closed-toe, non-slip shoes to guard against sharp objects and ensure stability. Apply sunscreen and wear a hat to protect your skin and eyes from the sun.
- Handle Tools with Care: Keep tools maintained and use them properly.
- Mind Your Back: Lift heavy objects with proper form to avoid injury.
- Stay Hydrated: Drink water regularly, especially on hot days, to prevent dehydration. Take frequent breaks in a shady spot to avoid overheating.
- Watch for Pests: Be on the lookout for bees, wasps, and other wildlife that may be in your garden. Consider wearing long sleeves to protect against bites and stings.
- Allergy Precautions: If you're allergic, consider wearing a mask.
- Secure the Area: Keep your garden space safe for all.
If you've been inspired by the many benefits of gardening, why not start your own garden today? Whether it's a few pots on a balcony or a dedicated plot in your yard, gardening can enhance your health, provide a sense of accomplishment, and even bring a little more beauty into your life. So, grab a trowel, plant some seeds, and watch as your garden—and your well-being—flourishes. Happy gardening!