Gardening is more than just a hobby or a way to get free food. It can also have a significant impact on your well-being. Research has shown that spending time in nature and engaging in activities like gardening can help reduce stress, improve mood, and boost overall mental health. In this blog post, we will explore some of the ways that gardening can improve the way you feel.
Fosters independence
Gardening can foster independence by helping you develop new skills. These skills will allow you to become self-sufficient and less dependent on others for your grocery needs. Having a sustainable source of food can reduce any concerns about food insecurity and help you weather the storm in times of crisis. Similarly, planting marijuana seeds can allow you to have a steady supply of medicinal cannabis, so you do not have to worry about changing restrictions or rising costs.
Reduces stress
Time spent in natural settings has been demonstrated to reduce stress levels. If you are looking for a way to slow down and appreciate the here and now, gardening may be just the thing for you. The repetitive motions of gardening, whether digging in the dirt, planting seeds, or weeding, can help to soothe the mind and reduce stress levels. It also allows you to disconnect from electronic devices and escape from other stressors that may be weighing on your mind and fueling your anxiety.
Boosts mood
Gardening can have a positive impact on your mood. As you watch your plants grow and flourish, you will feel a sense of accomplishment and satisfaction. Nurturing and caring for your plants can also provide a sense of purpose and meaning, which can increase feelings of well-being. Studies have shown that gardening can increase levels of dopamine and serotonin: two neurotransmitters that play a key role in regulating mood and promoting feelings of happiness and well-being.
Promotes creativity
Gardening can foster creativity by providing an outlet for self-expression and experimentation. The design of a garden, from the layout to the choice of plants, is a creative process that allows for personalisation and individuality. Gardeners can experiment with color, texture, and form to create a unique outdoor space. For example, you could have a purple-themed cannabis crop or a cute little garden filled with different varieties of gourds and melons.
Cultivates patience
Plants grow and mature at their own pace, and it can take months or even years to see the full results of your efforts. Gardeners must learn to be patient and accept setbacks, such as pests, disease, or inclement weather. You also learn to pay careful attention to detail as mistakes or oversights can have devastating consequences. By learning to be patient and persistent, gardeners can develop resilience and a sense of satisfaction in the slow but steady progress of their garden.
Provides a sense of connection
Gardening can provide a sense of connection to something greater than oneself. It can help us see how everything in nature is interconnected and feel a part of something bigger. Gardening can also be used to connect with other people, whether in a community garden or by sharing your harvest with neighbours. This sense of community can help to promote feelings of belonging and acceptance, which are both important for overall mental health and well-being.
Keeps you moving
Gardening is a form of physical activity that provides great exercise and can contribute to cardiovascular health. Tasks such as digging, planting, weeding, and pruning all require movement and can burn calories. Additionally, gardening can promote flexibility, strength, and balance, especially in older adults. Gardening also exposes the body to sunlight, which provides the body with vitamin D, an essential nutrient for bone health and good immune function.
Helps the environment
In the face of so much bad news about the climate and the environment, gardening is a way to make a positive impact on the planet. By growing and consuming your own food, you can reduce your carbon footprint and avoid the use of harmful pesticides and chemicals, which contaminate soil and water sources. Additionally, organic gardens can provide important habitats for insects, birds, and other wildlife, promoting biodiversity and contributing to the health of local ecosystems.
Want to get started?
If you are interested in starting a garden but are not sure where to begin, there are many online and offline resources available to help you get started. First, consider the space you have available and what you want to grow. Start small and ask your local garden centre for plants that are easy to grow. Gather the necessary tools, such as a shovel, gloves, pruning shears, and a watering can.
Prepare the soil by removing any weeds or debris and adding compost or other organic matter to promote healthy plant growth. Follow the instructions for planting your chosen plants and water them regularly. Maintain your garden by keeping it free from weeds and pests, and watering and fertilizing as needed.
Remember that gardening is a learning process, and you may encounter setbacks along the way. Do not be discouraged and keep trying. Over time, you will learn what works best for your garden and develop a green thumb that you will be proud of. What’s more, you will get to enjoy the fruits of your labour and share them with your friends and family.
Simona LeVey did her degree in psychology at Tel Aviv University. She is interested in mental health, wellness, and lifestyle.
