Take up gardening to manage stress and anxiety

Gardening has long been known to have therapeutic benefits for our physical health, but recent research has shown that it can also have a positive impact on our mental health. Studies have found that gardening can help reduce stress and anxiety, improve mood and self-esteem, and provide a sense of purpose and fulfilment.

Research published in the Journal of Health Psychology showed that gardening can significantly reduce symptoms of depression and anxiety in individuals with mental health disorders.

One reason for this is that gardening provides a sense of connection to nature. The act of tending to plants and watching them grow can be a calming and meditative experience and being outdoors in nature has been shown to reduce stress and improve overall well-being.

A survey of 1,000 gardeners conducted by Gardeners' World magazine found that 80 per cent of respondents reported feeling happy and satisfied after spending time in their garden and 93 per cent felt a sense of accomplishment after completing a gardening task.

In addition, gardening can provide a sense of accomplishment and mastery. Watching seeds turn into seedlings and then into mature plants can give us a sense of pride and satisfaction, which in turn can help us feel more capable and confident in our abilities. As you develop your green thumb skills, you will soon realise a sense of community and social connection and here is why.

Many small gardeners and plant mothers tend to bond over best practices, plant care, and every other useful information that will improve your gardening. In the process, friendships that go beyond plants flourish and grow as you get to hang out with like-minded individuals.

Another benefit of gardening for mental health is the physical exercise it provides. Gardening involves a variety of physical activities such as digging, planting, weeding and watering, which can help improve cardiovascular health and overall fitness.

Additionally, gardening can provide a creative outlet for self-expression. Choosing plants and arranging them in aesthetically pleasing ways can be a form of artistic expression and that can help you feel more in tune with your creativity.

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It is important to note that gardening is not a substitute for professional mental health treatment. However, it can be a helpful tool in managing stress and anxiety and improving overall health. In the event that you need a much better outlet, seek professional health assistance.

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