Gardening is nature’s medicine

Gardens could be nature’s medicine. Gardens, gardening and contact with plants and green spaces provides therapeutic and physical benefits. It improves our physical, emotional, mental health and wellbeing.

Recent health studies in the UK  encourage GP’s to prescribe gardening and gardens as support to traditional clinical referrals in helping alleviate health issues..

Moreover, studies show significant reductions in symptoms of depression and anxiety following gardening based interventions. Research also shows that 20 minutes spent in parks and gardens reduces symptoms of attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD). T Even views of greenery through a window can have a positive impact on mental health.  he same can’t be said for time spent in concrete, urban settings.

Whether you’re growing fruit and veggies, flowers or succulents, getting your green thumb on has a surprising number of health benefits for you and your family.

Stay fit and active in the garden

Depending on the size of your garden, maintaining it is a great way to be physically active. This can be as strenuous as mowing the lawn. Or as gentle as getting a good stretch and practise stabilising yourself while kneeling, sitting or reaching.

Additionally, gardening is a healthy activity. It encourages the use of motor skills, improves endurance and strength and keeps you moving.  It truly is nature’s medicine.

Eat your greens

Do you have a picky eater at your dinner table? Kids who are picky eaters may be keener to try new foods they’ve helped grow. Watching the plants sprout and grow, waiting until fruit and veggies are ripe and ready to eat helps build their enthusiasm for healthy foods.

The effect works on everyone, not just those with hard-to-please tastes. Growing your own fruit, vegetables and herbs will encourage you to eat seasonally. You will add more variety to your diet and learn to appreciate fresh produce. Remember, gardening is nature’s medicine.