THE HEALTH BENEFITS OF GARDENING

Gardening is a popular hobby for thousands around the globe. However, the enjoyable activity can also bring about several health benefits. Studies have shown that being in and around nature can have a positive impact on your physical and mental health. With that said, we’re taking a look at some of the various health benefits of gardening below.

Helps build confidence

The activity allows you to learn new skills, from planting to pruning and weeding. It also provides a great sense of accomplishment once a task is complete. What’s more, you can easily experiment when gardening, and find different ways to become creative. All these factors combined naturally help to increase your confidence, which can become evident in other aspects of your life.

Increases vitamin D levels

You can potentially increase your vitamin D levels when gardening in the summer. This is because you are more exposed to sunlight. However, you should take care to avoid sunburn and skin damage.

You can do this by wearing sunscreen with a high SPF and wearing protective clothing for your safety. Furthermore, it is best to spend time in your garden when the sun is not as strong, such as later in the afternoon or early in the morning.

Helps build strength

As a physical activity, gardening can help you to build strength as you navigate around the garden. It involves digging, shovelling and other movements, some of which are often repetitive. Doing these actions can help to build strength, gradually building up muscle usage and even reducing any muscle weakness. Note that you should take care to ensure that you go at your own pace and don’t overdo it, especially if it is your first time gardening.

Reduces stress

As a popular stress-relieving activity, gardening is a great way to relax and reduce tension. This is due to many reasons, including being exposed to nature, which has calming effects on the mind and body. Another reason is that it requires you to actively focus on the task you are doing, and therefore, as your mind is focused, your worries and stresses may begin to disappear in the background.

Provides a chance to socialise

Whether gardening in an allotment, your own front yard or anywhere else, gardening offers a great chance to get social and chat with others. That could be new and old friends, family members or neighbours. It is especially good in helping those who live alone to come out of self-isolation.

Is a form of low impact exercise

Gardening is a great way to get up and moving, without putting extra stress on your joints and muscles. It therefore provides minimal risk of injury. The benefits of taking part in low impact activities like gardening include improving balance and coordination. You should ensure to use proper techniques to avoid any strains or injury.

Overall, gardening is a truly enjoyable activity that brings various health benefits. It offers the perfect chance to get up and moving, while spending time in the great outdoors - all while having fun along the way! It is great for people of all abilities and brings huge health benefits for everyone.

This article was written by a representative of Sutton Manor Nursery.