The Proven Health Benefits of Gardening

Gardening is a great hobby to have, especially now in Covid times. If gardening isn't your thing perhaps this article might make you reconsider.  

Here are six proven health benefits of gardening originally posted on Philstar.com

1. It improves brain health

Since it requires the use of your cognitive functions, research shows that gardening is effective in keeping your mind sharp. Not only does it help improve your memory, but also tending to your plants for even a few hours a day will lower your risk of dementia and Alzheimer’s.

2. It keeps you active, and in shape

In the book, “Fitness the Dynamic Gardening Way,” author Jeff Restuccio explained to WebMD that you can turn your gardening into a structured exercise routine. So, if you miss hitting the gym due to the pandemic, growing vegetables in your backyard is a perfect alternative to your workouts since three hours of gardening equates to an hour of a gym session. Plus, you don’t need to pay for a membership fee. It’s a win-win for your body and your wallet!

3. It provides a healthier diet

By growing your own food, you will find yourself more in control of what you put in your body. Freshly picked fruits, vegetables, and herbs have more nutrients than what you would normally buy from the store. On top of that, sustainably cultivating your plants will make for richer and more delicious produce, thus making it easy to incorporate more greens into your diet.

4. It relieves stress

The relaxing nature of gardening activities is in itself a stress reliever. Studies further proved that taking care of plants daily can reduce symptoms of anxiety and depression. Not only that—exposure to sunlight makes your body produce Vitamin D, and in turn, Vitamin D produces serotonin, which is a brain chemical that makes you happy!

5. It aids sleep

Doing physical activities such as gardening will not only tire you out at the end of the day. Owing to the light therapy given off by the sun, you will also have adequate melatonin to help you sleep well at night, realigning your sleep patterns for an energy-filled morning the next day.

Your indoor plants are also a huge factor for a good night’s sleep. Plants with air-cleaning properties can clear out air particles and remove harmful chemicals, leaving you with excellent air quality while asleep.

6. It strengthens immunity

Being exposed to a sufficient amount of “the sunshine vitamin” also keeps your bones, teeth, and muscles healthy, not to mention it boosts your immune system. The dirt in your garden is home to good bacteria called, Mycobacterium vaccae, a “friendly” soil bacteria that also helps in strengthening your immunity.

Taking part in gardening activities does benefit our overall health – from physical to mental. And what better way to begin your journey in horticulture than to use recyclable materials to help with the efforts on environmental sustainability.

Happy gardening from your friends at Shamrock Landscape Co.