Reconnect with nature through gardening and improve your mental state during lockdown

In Japan, they have a therapy called shinrin-yoku which translates to forest bathing, in which it recognises the healing power of green spaces. Developed during the 1980s, the therapy has become a cornerstone of preventive healthcare and healing activity.

Backed with scientific reasons, it is said that gardening has a beneficial effect on one's mental health and welfare from reducing stress to boosting the immune system. Today, more people are heading outdoors to tend their spaces to have a sense of calm, order, and connect with the earth. But for those who are living in apartments and do not have sufficient space outdoor, it is best to create an indoor garden, which also has a variety of benefits such as improvement of air quality and emotional therapy. Below, we give you six benefits of gardening on mental health and on why you should start this holistic journey.

 

1. Vitamin D

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Exposure to Vitamin D increases calcium level, which greatly benefits your bones and immune system, and getting enough sunlight also improves your mood. So activities like gardening is a sure-fire way to get a dose of the sunshine vitamin while doing a fun hobby.

2. Stress Reducer

A natural stress-reliever, gardening like any other form of sport is a great way to calm your mind. Working with plants and being in a green space provides serious stress relief and positive sensory stimulation. So start planting!

3. Exercise

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Much like hitting the gym, gardening allows you to break a sweat. It is an effective way to boost your mood and lower anxiety. All the digging, raking, and planting gets all your muscles moving and endorphins flying and can help improve your strength and stamina.

4. Being Present

Gardening enables you to have a sense of ease and be present at the moment. It's the best way to practise mindfulness and take time to enjoy the beauty around you and put aside all your worries, even if it's just for a while. A garden is a safe place where you can practice mindful presence.

5. Finding a sense of purpose

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Another benefit you can get from gardening is that you can achieve a sense of purpose. As it is a hands-on task, it allows you to be involved and reap the fruits of your labour. It also gives you a sense of pride in nurturing your own plants, flowers, and herbs.

6. Connecting to the world

People who are involved in gardening experience a deeper sense of connection with nature. Gardening grounds you and helps you reconnect with your roots and know the value of the plants or crops you are growing. It can also help strengthen your connection with others.

Read also: David Bailey On Turning Crisis Into A Catalyst For Self-Improvement

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