As we celebrate National Gardening Week, we’d like to share the benefits of gardening as a way to boost our health and happiness. It’s not just about planting flowers; it’s about digging into the dirt and reaping some amazing wellness benefits.
Physical Benefits of Gardening
Through gardening you can drastically improve your physical health – you’re constantly moving and using your muscles without even realising it. Digging, planting, weeding and many other tasks you take whilst gardening all promote a healthier lifestyle. Plus, these activities can really increase your heart rate, improve your cardiovascular system and studies show that gardening can help lower blood pressure, improve circulation, and even reduce the risk of heart disease.
Mental Benefits of Gardening
However, gardening isn’t just good for the body; it’s a real boost for mind as well! Spending time in green space helps people to destress, improve their mood and enhance their self-esteem. There’s also something deeply therapeutic about getting your hands dirty and watching your hard work pay off! Gardening has the ability to connect you with nature, being surrounded by greenery and life can help us feel more grounded and connected to the world around us.
Nutritional Benefits of Gardening
Imagine this: you step into your back garden, and all the food you need is right there. That’s the beauty of gardening – not only do you get to grow your own food, but you also get to taste your hard work. When you’ve grown your own fruits and vegetables, you’re getting food that’s packet full of vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants. None of the stuff that’s been sitting on shelves for weeks, plus its fresh which means no chemicals or pesticides, it’s all organic and healthier produce.
17 Australasian Garden
Social Benefits of Gardening
Gardening is a fantastic way to connect with people of all ages and background. Whether you’re swapping tips or teaching people about where their food comes from, there’s always something to learn and share. When your part of a community garden, you’re not just tending to your own plot, you’re contributing to something bigger than yourself.
And not to forget about the educational opportunities that come with community gardening. Kids learn valuable lessons about nature, sustainability, and where their food comes from. It’s a hands-on way to teach important skills and values that will stick with them for life.
Gardening isn’t just about plants and flowers; it’s about improving your mental and physical health – as well as becoming more community minded and involved. By cultivating green spaces, we not only beautify our surroundings but also reap the benefits of connecting with nature. So, give gardening a go!
Find out more and enroll on our Horticulture courses starting in September, including RHS courses, short courses and Apprenticeships.
