Are you looking to improve your health in? If so, consider starting a garden! Many of us may not think of gardening as a method of improving our health, but it can help with several aspects of wellness—from the simple joy of getting outside and being active to the physical benefits of eating nutrient-rich foods that you’ve grown yourself. Try an amazing gardening blog Growncares to get the right gardening informtions.To learn more about the health benefits of gardening, read on!
Gardeners are happier people
An interesting study from a few years ago showed that people who garden on a regular basis are generally happier than those who don’t. In fact, being out in your garden for as little as 15 minutes can improve your mood. Gardening is also considered a meditation-like activity and many have referred to it as flower therapy. So, whether you’re getting physical exercise or simply enjoying nature, gardening can make you feel great!
Food from your garden is healthier
Fresh fruits and vegetables provide plenty of vitamins, minerals, and fiber—and that’s just for starters. A study in Food Science found that when people added more produce to their diets, they had lower BMIs after five years compared to those who didn’t eat as much fresh produce. Bonus: Eating foods high in vitamin C can help ward off colds by boosting your immune system, new research suggests. Having a healthy BMI is important not only for overall health but also because it can reduce your risk of other diseases such as diabetes, some cancers, stroke and heart disease. Plus, you’ll look better! Here are some tips to get started
Gardens in urban areas decrease stress
Urbanites often live in heavily-trafficked, noisy, and polluted areas. While many people might think that gardeners are immune to these stressors due to their long hours of working outdoors, studies have shown that gardening in urban areas reduces stress levels by increasing self-efficacy (belief in one’s ability) and decreasing cortisol (stress hormone). The increased exposure to greenery can also be good for your mental health. Exposing yourself to nature has been shown to increase positive emotions while decreasing depression symptoms and increases overall life satisfaction.
Gardening can improve mental health
Simply interacting with nature can help us feel calmer and happier. When we spend time outside in natural spaces, we’re reminded of our place within it and feel less stressed, anxious or depressed. In fact, one study found that people who have gardens tend to have lower stress levels and report higher levels of life satisfaction than those who don’t have a garden. If you lack access to open space, indoor plants can deliver similar benefits. If you don’t know where to start with gardening but want to explore these benefits further, try visiting a local community garden; there are more than 20 million gardeners across America looking for some gardening companionship!
Nurture yourself with daily time in the garden
The natural world can have a powerful effect on our health, with gardening being one of its biggest benefits. When we are in contact with nature, whether it be via gardening or walking through forests and parks, there is a greater release of dopamine in our brain which has a calming effect on both body and mind. Growing plants like ficus tineke can feel you better. Not only that but being outside aids stress reduction, reduces anxiety and depression and lowers blood pressure. And these are just some of its psychological effects.
The therapeutic effect of being outdoors
If you’re looking for an excuse to get outside and enjoy some fresh air, you can go ahead and list health benefits in your to-do list. One of those benefits is being outdoors, which has been linked to reduced stress levels and increased physical activity. According to a study from researchers at McGill University, women who work out in green spaces tend to be happier with their exercise routine than those who work out indoors. And while it may seem like we’re just blowing sunshine up your behind when we say gardening can improve your mental health—science backs us up on that one.
There are other benefits too
Research has shown that having a garden can not only increase your physical health but also your mental well-being. It’s been linked to better sleep, more vitality and is known to relieve stress and anxiety. There are even studies which have found that people who grow their own food are less likely to suffer from depression, schizophrenia or bipolar disorder as they’re both physically and mentally healthier. So take up gardening if you haven’t already, it’s good for you!