Benefits of Gardening
Gardening is a great activity for people of all ages, and with the COVID-19 pandemic many people have taken up gardening as a quarantine hobby. In addition to providing fresh fruits and vegetables for your dinner table, gardening has numerous physical and mental health benefits. Firstly, outdoor activities such as gardening are one of the best ways to increase your body’s vitamin D levels. When you spend time outside in the sun, your skin uses the sunlight to make vitamin D, which is particularly important for strengthening your bones and immune system. Those with low vitamin D levels are typically at higher risk for several health conditions such as heart disease, diabetes, and multiple sclerosis.
Due to the cognitive functions required for gardening, keeping your hands busy in the dirt has been linked to helping those with dementia. According to a study done by the University of New South Wales, gardening can lower the risk of dementia by nearly 36 percent. Gardening can also make a positive impact on your overall mood. For many people, gardening is almost therapeutic, as those who garden feel less stressed and anxious due to lower cortisol levels. Gardening is also a great way to meet new people in your community. The American Community Gardening Association (ACGA) hosts community gardens where like-minded individuals can come together and collaborate. If interested, visit this link to find your closest community garden. Gardening is a widely available activity that encourages a healthy lifestyle, so why not start today?
Sources
Hutchins, Robert. “8 Surprising Health Benefits of Gardening.” UNC Health Talk, 18 May 2020, healthtalk.unchealthcare.org/health-benefits-of-gardening/.
Stanborough, Rebecca Joy. “10 Benefits of Gardening, Plus Helpful Tips & Recommendations.” Healthline, Healthline Media, 17 June 2020, www.healthline.com/health/healthful-benefits-of-gardening.
Hayes, Kim. “5 Health Benefits of Gardening and Planting.” AARP, 14 June 2017, www.aarp.org/health/healthy-living/info-2017/health-benefits-of-gardening-fd/.