Gardening and Wellbeing

The relation between Gardening and Health

By: Niyati Roy 

Studies show that gardening is important for physical health, mental health and promotes better nutrition. Some of the benefits of gardening can be summarised as:

• Stress relief 
• Exercise 
• Brain health
• Nutrition
• Healing 
• Immunity

Gardening helps with stress relief by lowering stress hormones and increasing positive mood. Gardening is also a form of exercise especially for older adults who cannot exert too much physical energy. Studies following individuals in their 60s and 70s found that those who gardened regularly had a 30% lower risk of dementia than those who did not garden frequently. In addition, gardening is simply useful for producing healthier fruits and vegetables which assists in nutrition and healthy eating.  Interacting with nature also helps our bodies heal. A landmark study by Roger S. Ulrich, published in the April 27, 1984, issue of Science magazine, found strong evidence that nature helps heal. This was noticed in the form of fewer hospital stays, fewer complaints and less pain medication. 

Ultimately gardening provides a method to unwind, relax, reflect and restore ourselves. It provides us an opportunity to connect with nature and learn from it. Although it is often carried out by older individuals, it should be enforced in all ages due to its spiritual and psychological benefits. 

The benefits of gardening can also result from the type of flowers planted:

• Coloured flowers and roses can be visually stimulating and provide warmth and tranquility. 
• Herbs are a way to stimulate olfactory senses and are a source of nutrition. 
• Tactile plants appeal to our sense of touch. Smooth, soft, silky leaves compel you to touch them!
• Even the sound of rustling leaves and grass is a soothing element in the garden. 

References: 

-https://permaculturenews.org/2013/06/05/wellbeing-gardening-gardening-for-the-body-mind-spirit

-Ulrich RS (1984) View through a window may influence recovery from surgery. Science 224(4647):420–421.

-https://gardeners-perth.com.au/wp-content/uploads/2015/05/o-GARDENING-TOOL-facebook.jpg

-http://totalairborne.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/02/gardening.jpg