Gardening is more than just a hobby; it’s a powerful tool that can profoundly affect our mental health.
From reducing stress to fostering community connections, gardening offers numerous benefits backed by
scientific research. This post explores the mental health benefits of gardening and how you can increase your
own well-being by scratching the dirt!
Exercise and Physical Activity Gardening provides low-impact exercise that can stimulate the release of endorphins and serotonin,
chemicals in the brain that improve mood and reduce symptoms of depression and anxiety.
A study published in Preventive Medicine Reports reveals that gardening can reduce your body mass index (BMI)
and increase your overall life satisfaction. This aligns with broader research showing that physical activity,
even in moderate forms like gardening, can help reduce stress and improve mental health.
Sunlight and Vitamin D Another key aspect of gardening is exposure to sunlight. Vitamin D, which is produced when sunlight hits the skin,
plays a crucial role in mental health. Deficiency in this vitamin has been linked to depression and other
mental health disorders. Spending time in the garden, therefore, not only offers physical exercise but also
provides the essential nutrients needed for healthy brain function.
Mindful Activity Gardening is a meditative practice, encouraging mindfulness and providing an outlet for stress relief.
A study in Clinical Medicine highlights how activities like gardening can improve mood and mental health by
encouraging people to observe nature. Gardening allows for an immersive experience, helping individuals to focus
on the present moment, reducing stress, and promoting relaxation.
Connecting With Nature Being in nature is inherently calming, and gardening provides a direct way to connect with it.
Research suggests that spending time in green spaces, including gardens, can lower cortisol levels and improve
mood. By nurturing plants and creating green environments, gardening offers a dual benefit: reducing stress
and fostering a sense of connection to the natural world.
Community Gardens such as Glastonbury Healing Gardens Gardening can be a communal activity, fostering social interactions that combat loneliness and depression.
In addition to food security, community gardens provide a space for people to interact, share advice, and form supportive relationships.
The study in Preventive Medicine Reports emphasises the positive impact of these social connections on mental
health.
Therapeutic Horticulture Programmes Programmes designed for individuals with mental health issues, such as therapeutic horticulture,
help participants engage with others and find support through gardening. These programmes not only offer a
therapeutic outlet but also create opportunities for social interactions, which are crucial for mental
well-being.
Sense of Accomplishment and Creativity and Nurturing Growth The process of planting, nurturing, and seeing plants grow provides a tangible sense of achievement.
This can contribute to a positive self-image and reduce symptoms of depression. Additionally, the study in
Clinical Medicine emphasises how these activities can enhance self-esteem and improve overall mental
well-being.
Creative Expression Gardening also allows for creative planning and design, stimulating the mind and providing a joyful outlet. The creative aspects of gardening, such as choosing plants and arranging them in visually pleasing ways, can boost mood and provide mental stimulation, reducing the risk of cognitive decline.
Dealing with Emotions Gardening offers a constructive outlet for emotions, helping people process and
manage their feelings. The mental health benefits of gardening have been recognised in studies, with
participants reporting lower levels of stress, anxiety, and depression. Engaging in gardening activities can
serve as a valuable coping mechanism for those experiencing emotional difficulties.
Long-term Mental Health Benefits of Gardening Sustained engagement in gardening can lead to long-term
improvements in mental health. By incorporating gardening into their routines, people can experience sustained
benefits, including reduced symptoms of mental health disorders and an overall improvement in quality of life.
Study Findings on Community Gardening A recent study published in The Lancet Planetary Health showed that community gardening interventions could lead to improvements in diet, physical activity, and perceived stress and anxiety. The study, conducted in Colorado, included diverse participants and found that gardening significantly increased daily fiber intake and moderate-to-vigorous physical activity. Additionally, those who participated in gardening reported reduced levels of stress and anxiety compared to those on a waiting list, demonstrating the comprehensive benefits of gardening for mental and physical health.
Conclusion: Gardening offers multiple avenues for improving mental health, from physical benefits to stress reduction and social connection. Scientific studies show that gardening can reduce BMI, increase life satisfaction, and offer a therapeutic outlet for emotions. By engaging in gardening, individuals can cultivate calm, nurture their well-being, and create beautiful green spaces that benefit both mind and body.
Consider incorporating gardening into your routine, regardless of the scale. Whether tending to a small potted
plant or cultivating an entire garden, the benefits for your mental health are significant and lasting.
Even better, come and volunteer at Glastonbury Healing Gardens. We have the tools, we have the land, and we
have the know how. Come down any Tuesday at 11am amd meet the gang, AND HAVE FUN!
References:
Ainamani et al. (2022). Gardening activity and its relationship to mental health: Understudied and untapped in low- and middle-income countries. Preventive Medicine Reports.
Thompson, R. (2018). Gardening for health: a regular dose of gardening. Clinical Medicine.
Litt et al. (2023). Effects of a community gardening intervention on diet, physical activity, and anthropometry outcomes in the USA (CAPS). Lancet Planetary Health.