Studies have shown that the majority of health problems are caused by stress, which is why stress management is suggested to those who are at high risk. Gardening is one way to relieve stress as you get your daily dose of sunshine, exercise, and being in touch with nature brings a different kind of peace to yourself. Nowadays, going to nature parks or camping grounds is not an option due to several restrictions of the pandemic, having a garden no matter how big or small they are will help surely help you feel a sense of nature at the comfort of your home.
Exercise is also an important role to fight stress, but it’s not for everyone. Going to the gym or jogging seems to be a bit tiresome and unenjoyable especially to the older generation. Although any form of movement can increase your fitness level, gardening is one of the most popular alternatives in trying to increase your physical activity. Gardening activities such as digging soil, planting flowers and pulling up weeds can burn up to 200 to 400 calories per hour! All this while getting Vitamin D from the sun and breathing fresher air.
Stress is normally triggered by sudden changes in a person’s life, a loss of loved ones, or merely by just being under pressure. That is why gardening is a popular choice in combating a person’s stress level as it helps them regain mental focus or clarity, increase their creativity, and improves their attention span. Research from Bristol University stated that working with soil on your hands helps you become happier as they have a natural antidepressant that stimulates serotonin production, a chemical that acts as a mood stabilizer.
While most people prefer costly therapies for alleviating stress, gardening is a less expensive approach. Planting seeds on fresh soil, harvesting, or digging holes is a great way to get rid of your built-up feelings and release tension from your body.
Gardening is scientifically proven as a stress reliever, whether you are coping up with work or school stress, having a garden at home would surely come in handy. This will not only take care of your mental health, but also your physical health as growing organic food in your garden is a healthier meal option than getting preservatives at the grocery store. Not to mention, it will be a huge save on your pocket too!
Do not take your mental health for granted, taking care of one’s emotional and mental health is as important as it can impair your physical health. Maintaining a positive outlook in life and having a good source of healthy foods for your diet will benefit you in the long run.