When I first learned that stirring up dirt released microbes that resembled serotonin, I was hooked. The bacteria found in soil could very well stimulate serotonin production, which makes you relaxed and happier. It made me want to play in the garden and take walks in the woods and roll in the grass more with my grandchildren.
Gardening can be a fun and rewarding hobby that provides lots of other health benefits as well. Whether you have a small balcony or a large backyard, gardening is a great way to get outside, connect with nature, and improve your overall well-being. In this blog, we’ll explore some of the key health benefits of gardening and why you should consider making it a regular part of your routine.
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Exercise: Gardening is a physical activity that provides a moderate level of exercise. It can help improve your strength, flexibility, and balance, and can be a great way to get moving if you’re looking for a low-impact form of exercise.
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Stress Reduction: Gardening has been shown to reduce stress and promote relaxation. (Remember the serotonin?) The act of planting, nurturing, and harvesting plants can be calming and meditative, helping you to clear your mind and reduce stress.
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Improved Mood: Gardening has been linked to improved mood and a reduced risk of depression. Spending time outside in nature, being active, and feeling a sense of accomplishment from growing your own plants can all contribute to an improved mood, too. Who doesn’t like to accomplish stuff that makes you feel AMAZING?
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Increased Vitamin D: Gardening provides the opportunity to get some sunlight, which can help boost your Vitamin D levels. Vitamin D is important for bone health, immune function, and overall health, and many people are deficient in this essential nutrient.
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Better Hand-Eye Coordination: Gardening requires fine motor skills, such as planting seeds and maintaining delicate plants. This can help improve your hand-eye coordination, especially as you get older, and for your grandkids as well as they grow.
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Fresh Produce: Gardening can provide you with fresh, healthy produce that you can incorporate into your diet. Growing your own fruits and vegetables can also save you money and reduce your carbon footprint. Of course my husband says that gardening costs more since I buy so many plants! It’s still a cool hobby. It also encourages your grandkids to enjoy vegetables more.
Gardening is a great way to improve your physical and mental health. Whether you’re a seasoned gardener or a beginner, there are many benefits to be gained from spending time outside in nature, getting your hands dirty, and growing your own plants.
Action steps: Find a small plot of ground and play in the soil a bit…You might want to start with herbs!
