Health benefits of gardening.

by Katie Hunter

So, now you're gardening and wondering, what does this do for my mental health, what are the benefits? '

Practising Acceptance.

Most of our suffering comes from trying to control things we can’t. Everyday is one more reminder, through nature, we are not in control.

Moving beyond perfection.

Given the lack of control we have, gardening can be a good antidote for perfectionism. No matter how carefully you plan and execute your garden, there will always be factors, like invasion of bugs, inclement weather, hungry rodents and so on.

Developing a growth mindset.

With a growth mindset, we can be constantly learning. When something doesn’t workout the way we have hoped, we view it as a learning opportunity rather than a “failure.” We can look forward to mistakes, as they just mean more opportunity for learning and growing.

Connecting with others.

Gardening is one of the best ways to connect with others who have the same interest. Joining groups online is beneficial for everyone, at every level, it's exponential, as well as quick. Connecting with other gardeners this way is great, there's so much to talk about; not only the nuts and bolts about gardening but the emotional and spiritual connections we can have with our gardens.

Connecting to your world.

Gardening provides a connection, not just to other people but to our world. Having a relationship with your garden, being more aware of the elements, such as: how much rain we’ve had, first and last frosts of the season, temperature throughout the day and night, and where the sunlight falls throughout the day. Gardening connects us with the cycle of the seasons.

Bathing in Green.

The Japanese expression “shinrin-yoku” can be translated as “forest bathing” which captures the experience of being immersed in green. The nice thing about gardening is it can be right out your back door. Spend more time in your yard.

Being present.

If you like to have music in your ear or listen to a podcast, try going into your garden while weeding and just listen to the birds singing. Most times you wouldn’t want to listen to anything else. For me, it’s my quiet time.

Physical exercise.

Moving your body regularly is a great way to boost mood and lower anxiety. Gardening offers “no shortage of opportunities for physical activity,” with aerobic benefits, muscle strengthening and fine motor control.

Reducing stress.

Time in the garden can be a great way to release stress. Feeling life around you, with the warmth of the sun, soil in your hands and the smell of the earth, the breeze on your face and beautiful skies around you stimulates stress release. Try to remember to spend time in your garden, for these reasons, and experience what’s around you.

Eating healthfully.

Last but not least, your garden can yield the freshest and healthiest foods available, the types of food which can have a significant impact on our mental health. Two studies have shown dietary changes can be an effective treatment for depression, most importantly, in these types of healthy directions.

So why not try gardening? Get outside and enjoy what your garden can offer you. Give it the love it needs, you'll get something good back.