Simply put – life can be challenging. It’s sometimes hard to get through the day, and proven coping mechanisms such as physical exercise and stress relief can be hard to come by in our breakneck world. We’re always trying to find new ways to help ourselves make the challenge of self-care a little easier. And the answer to all of this could be right outside your window!
Studies are showing that gardening is great for both your body and mind. A university study from 2016 conducted in Tokyo, Japan concluded that those that participated in active gardening showed a decrease in symptoms for depression, anxiety, and other mood disturbances. There was also a positive increase in physical activity levels, cognitive skills, good sleep, and a heightened sense of community and overall well being.
Growing food in your garden comes with a mountain of benefits as well. Not only might you save a few trips to the grocery store, but your grown food will be fully organic, fresh, and much more emotionally rewarding to eat. Even if you live in an apartment or otherwise don’t have space for a garden in your home, there are still options for you. There are often many local community gardens you can check out.
Of course, gardening alone won’t be able to solve all your problems, and it is not a replacement for other important forms of self-care. If you’re feeling overwhelmed in one way or another, never hesitate to make a visit to a professional. But one of the things that professional will tell you, most likely, is the importance of regular exercise, healthy doses of sunlight, and a sense of engagement with your surroundings as you create something positive in the world. Gardening covers all of those bases in one fell swoop.
