Gardening is often seen as a hobby, but it can be much more than that. Gardening is actually an excellent way to improve your mental health. There are many benefits to gardening that can help reduce stress, improve mood, and increase overall well-being. In this article, we will explore the ways in which gardening can benefit mental health.
Stress Reduction
One of the most significant benefits of gardening is its ability to reduce stress. Gardening provides an opportunity to connect with nature, which has been shown to have a calming effect on the mind and body. The act of gardening can be meditative and can help to reduce symptoms of anxiety and depression.
Studies have shown that gardening can lower levels of cortisol, a hormone that is associated with stress. Cortisol is released in response to stress, and high levels of cortisol can lead to a number of health problems, including anxiety, depression, and weight gain.
Gardening can also help to reduce symptoms of post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). A study conducted by the University of Missouri found that gardening can help to reduce symptoms of PTSD in veterans. The study found that gardening can help to reduce symptoms of anxiety, depression, and anger in veterans with PTSD.
Mood Improvement
Gardening can also help to improve mood. The act of gardening can be rewarding, and seeing the fruits of your labor can be a mood booster. Gardening can also provide a sense of accomplishment, which can help to improve self-esteem and confidence.
Studies have shown that gardening can help to reduce symptoms of depression. A study conducted by the University of Bristol found that gardening can help to reduce symptoms of depression in people who have a history of depression. The study found that gardening can help to improve mood, reduce anxiety, and increase self-esteem.
Gardening can also help to reduce symptoms of seasonal affective disorder (SAD). SAD is a type of depression that occurs during the winter months when there is less sunlight. Gardening can help to provide exposure to sunlight, which can help to improve mood and reduce symptoms of SAD.
"As I work on the garden, the garden works on me." – Gayla Trail
Physical Exercise
Gardening is also a form of physical exercise. Gardening can help to improve flexibility, muscle strength, and endurance. Gardening can also help to improve cardiovascular health and reduce the risk of chronic diseases. Movement, such as digging, planting, and weeding, can all contribute to a more active lifestyle.
Studies have shown that gardening can help to reduce the risk of heart disease. A study conducted by the University of Arkansas found that gardening can help to reduce the risk of heart disease by reducing blood pressure and cholesterol levels.
Improved Sleep Quality
Getting enough sleep is essential for good mental health. Studies have shown that people who consistently get less than 7-8 hours of sleep per night are at a higher risk of developing mental health issues, such as depression, anxiety, and mood disorders. Lack of sleep can also worsen symptoms of existing mental health conditions. Sleep deprivation can actually cause changes in the brain that affect mood, emotions, and cognitive function, making it difficult to regulate emotions and think clearly.
Luckily, in addition to other benefits, gardening can help to improve sleep quality. Spending time in nature and engaging in physical activity can help reduce stress and anxiety, which can make it easier to fall asleep and stay asleep.
Furthermore, gardening can help regulate the body’s circadian rhythms, which can help improve sleep quality and duration. That’s right, quality AND quantity! The fresh air, sunlight, and physical activity associated with gardening can also help increase energy levels during the day, which will lead to better sleep at night.
Getting enough sleep can improve overall mood, reduce stress and anxiety, and promote better cognitive function.
Nutritive Health
Lastly, gardening can help improve nutrition by encouraging people to grow their own fruits and vegetables. This can help increase the intake of vitamins, minerals, and other nutrients that are essential for good mental and physical health. It can also help reduce the intake of processed foods, which are often high in calories, salt, and sugar. Better nutrients leads to a better mind! As you can see, gardening is an excellent way to improve physical and mental health. It provides a variety of benefits that can help reduce the risk of chronic conditions, improve mood, reduce stress, improve sleep, and promote an active and healthy lifestyle.