Gardening is good for you
There are many activities we can choose from to attain a healthy lifestyle.
Gardening is one of them.
Most people would not immediately group gardening with activities that can make you more healthy, but don’t be fooled.
Gardening can boast several health and tness benefits that should be taken seriously.
Growing food in your garden is especially beneficial.
An amazing source of fresh produce from your own garden is not only gratifying but good for your body.
An excellent way to gain a better harvest, particularly for a family, is by building a greenhouse where you can grow whatever you like year round.
Working in a garden, whether planting or doing maintenance, can range anywhere from a low intensity to higher intensity workout.
Getting that exercise several times a week can reduce your risk of high blood pressure, type 2 diabetes, heart disease, stroke, osteoporosis, and other sedentary-related health issues.
Gardening is also a great activity for those with existing health issues such as Alzheimer’s disease and dementia.
Spending time outside performing essential gardening tasks stimulates the brain while involving critical functions.
It can encourage and improve strength, endurance, dexterity, problem solving, and sensory awareness. The calming environment provided by maintaining a garden has a wealth of mental health benefits.
Being out in nature and working in the dirt exposes you to bacteria and organisms that can actually boost your immune system, keeping you healthier and less prone to depression.
The satisfaction of helping a garden thrive and ourish has a positive effect on your mental health.
Being part of a cycle of life in your garden can alleviate anxiety and depression.
It can offer a purposeful task to accomplish daily or weekly and be a quiet place to detox after a stressful day.
Gardening can also provide an outlet for your creativity. Your garden can be any way that you imagine it to be.
You can grow beautiful flowers, lush foliage, fruits and vegetables, or any combination of those. The garden can be small or large, in pots, in the ground, or in a greenhouse.
You can experiment with the types of plants you would like to grow or stick with something you know and love.
It is completely up to you to personalize your gardening endeavor to take the form of whatever makes you happy.
You can even carve out a spot in your garden for you to relax when gardening work is done.
A spot as cozy as a bench or as grand as a gazebo can give you a perch to enjoy what you have created.
It can be a spot to calm you when you need a break from school, work, or life in general.
Just being outside in the midst of your thriving plants can promote feelings of tranquility and happiness.
No matter if you live in the city, the suburbs, or the countryside, a garden can be a great way to enjoy a healthy lifestyle.
Get started on your own outdoor sanctuary today!
(Editor’s note: Maria Cannon, from Dallas, Texas, is a hobby enthu- siast and blogger at www.hobbyjr.com.)
