The Health Benefits That Come With Gardening

A lot of us enjoy our time in the garden surrounded by nature, caring for our plants and seeing them grow. But did you know that gardening is also an excellent way to a healthier and happier lifestyle? Below are a few ways in which gardening contributes to our well-being.

Improves mental health

In recent times, there has been considerable research in the field of mental health. Studies conducted in the UK, Japan and many more countries, have provided substantial evidence that spending more time gardening and in green spaces, can result in keeping anxiety, depression and stress at bay. It is thought that a combination of health benefits from gardening like physical exercise, sunlight, better diet and social or community gardening experiences, all contribute to improving our mental health.

https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC6334070/

Reduces the risk of dementia

In a 2006 study conducted in Australia, researchers documented the lifestyles of over 2,800 people over the age of 60, for 16 years. They concluded that physical activity – especially gardening – helps reduce the risk of dementia by 36 per cent.

https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/16411871/

Helps maintain physical health

Gardening is considered to be a good workout. It is said that just one hour of gardening can burn up to 330 calories. So, why go to the gym when you have a free one waiting for you at home? The US National Institute of Health recommends 30-45 mins of gardening, four to five times a week, to keep you healthy and fit besides improving strength and dexterity. Regular exercises are done while gardening is also found to reduce the risk of stroke and heart attack by 30 per cent in people over 60.

https://www.nih.gov/

Absorption of Vitamin D

While gardening, we are exposed to abundant sunlight, a brilliant source of Vitamin D, which helps increase the bodies’ calcium levels. This, in turn, is beneficial for our immune system and help in building our bones.

Keeps Osteoporosis in check

Osteoporosis – a common disorder amongst the elderly – causes the bones to weaken and become fragile, making them prone to fractures. Gardening promotes repetitive activities, giving our bones a good workout thus keeping us healthy and strong. Therefore, it reduces the risk of developing osteoporosis.

That rounds up a few of the numerous benefits of gardening. It helps clear your mind and keeps you physically active. So, get back to it and enjoy!