Last time, we explored how gardening can improve physical health by helping with disease prevention, boosting nutrition, and providing an enjoyable way to stay active. But the benefits don’t stop there! Gardening isn’t just great for the body — it’s also a powerful tool for mental and emotional well-being.
Gardening offers a natural and fulfilling way to feel better inside and out.
Now, let’s dig into the amazing ways gardening can nurture not just plants, but our minds and hearts too!
The Stress-Busting Magic of Gardening
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Ask anyone who gardens, and they’ll likely tell you how relaxing and calming it is. Turns out, they’re right! Studies show that gardening can actually lower stress and anxiety levels in a big way.
For example, a 2021 study of over 200 caregivers for people with dementia found that those who gardened experienced less depression, anxiety, and stress compared to those who didn’t. And it’s not just caregivers who benefit. Research also suggests that gardening can ease mental stress for people living with Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD).
Gardening Is Good for Your Brain
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Gardening doesn’t just help your mood; it can improve your brain health too! Studies show that older adults who garden have better brain function, thanks to increased serotonin (the “feel-good” chemical) and something called brain-derived neurotrophic factor — think of it as fertilizer for your brain cells.
In fact, a 2020 analysis of eight studies found that gardening helped people with dementia feel less agitated and more engaged in daily life.
Growing Happiness and Connection
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Gardening doesn’t just make plants grow — it can make happiness grow, too! Research shows that people who garden feel more satisfied with their lives, happier overall, and even more connected to their community. A study also found that gardening with vegetables gave people a bigger mood boost than growing flowers.
So, how much time do you need to garden to feel these benefits? According to a 2023 study from Brisbane, Australia, spending about 150 minutes a week (that’s two and a half hours) gardening works wonders. This is especially true for seniors over 64, but honestly, even just a few minutes of tending to plants here and there can make a difference.
Whether it’s planting a full vegetable garden or just growing a little herb pot on your windowsill, gardening is a simple way to feel happier, healthier, and more at peace.
