Health Benefits of Gardening
The other day I got to thinking about all the many health benefits related to the act of gardening. I have a tendency to get lost dwelling on such incredible scientific facts. BUT, what if I could only choose the first three health benefits that came to mind right off the bat? THAT is the fun part! It’s a challenge, and it’s what I am here to share with you today.
immune support
It may be the most obvious health benefit, but it is certainly worth mentioning because we all need reminding. This time of year we tend to suffer as we head indoors out of the sunshine and fresh air. Our vitamin d levels dwindle. I get it. Sometimes I would rather skip going outside, and stay in the comfort of my own home beneath a heated blanket to watch Netflix instead. Making the decision that you’re going to venture out promptly is the biggest step towards making it happen. After that? It’s time to set yourself up by bundling up! Don’t forget to leave some skin exposed! You can read more about vitamin d benefits when it comes to gardening here.
gut health
Maybe you’re not surprised by this one, if that’s you then you’ve listened to me for several years now. Maybe you’ve heard that gardening impacts gut health, but you aren’t sure how. In that case, let me simplify things and explain. In our gardens and especially the ones that practice holistic gardening with no tilling or pesticide use, we know that microbe levels are at their highest. How does that translate to our own gut microbiome? Have you ever shopped for a probiotic and seen the term ‘soil based’ probiotic? Well it’s the same microbes that can be found in your garden, on the skin of fruit and root hairs of carrots that are often found in these store bought capsules. The microbes in your garden can support the microbes in your gut and flourish. They support your health whenever you come in contact with the soil. It’s one of the reasons why I love gardening without gloves. I know for some of you it may not sound appealing to get your hands dirty, but I promise its worth it especially as super bugs continue to grow and become resistant to antibiotics. Even if you do wear gloves, digging and breathing in the garden air can help too. Read more from Gardening Know How on this topic here.
““Did you know that there’s a natural antidepressant in soil? It’s true. Mycobacterium vaccae is the substance under study and has indeed been found to mirror the effect on neurons that drugs like Prozac provide. The bacterium is found in soil and may stimulate serotonin production, which makes you relaxed and happier. Read more at Gardening Know How: Antidepressant Microbes In Soil: How Dirt Makes You Happy ”
”
mental health
Ahh this one. This one health benefit is worth all the rest in my opinion. As someone who has suffered from postpartum grief after pregnancy and miscarriage, I can vouch that the garden is a supportive outlet. A perinatal therapist friend of mine reminded me during an anxiety attack, to focus on the 5 senses in order to come back to the present and destress. In that moment I did not feel so helpless or alone. I was empowered to take control. In the garden, this task is so easy! Herbs are there to awaken my sense of smell and taste. The garden itself is a sight for sore, puffy eyes. The sound of birds chirping is music to my ears. Focusing on all the goodness in my garden brings me back to the present very quickly and I find peace. Studies show that even just being in nature can have the same positive effects. Don’t let acreage stop you from tapping into this magical health benefit of gardening.
PS - Of course there are so many more health benefits to gardening, like strengthening bones and stretching muscles, connecting with nature and neighbors, I could go on and on. For a more exhaustive list, checkout this article and the ones linked to above. What health benefit of gardening do you find is the most supportive for you?
Photos by Kara Perry Photography and myself.
