Gardening is oftentimes related with making environments and yards look visually appealing. However, gardening has a plethora of benefits beyond what the eye can see.
The physical action of gardening is a form of lighter to more moderate exercise. Depending on the level of activity, it could compare to a light walk or cycling exercise. Working in a garden incorporates dexterity, strength and aerobic exercise. Raking, digging and other gardening procedures are also examples of these exercises. Gardening utilizes many major muscle groups such as arms, shoulders, back, and legs. These meticulous tasks can contribute to increased strength and burning calories.
Aside from the benefits of physical activity, gardening can strengthen connections to nature. Getting involved in gardening can immensely alleviate stress levels. Being in sunlight, creating a beautiful space and being in touch with nature can distract one’s mind from the stressors of life.
Additionally, gardening does not have to be done alone. Gardening with community members, family and friends can unite individuals and promote social interaction. Increasing these positive interactions can boost one’s mood significantly.
Gardening has been significant for mental health and its therapeutic nature. Therapeutic gardens have been utilized in hospitals for thousands of years to improve surroundings and reduce stress levels. Gardening has been associated with a lower prevalence of dementia and other cognitive disorders as well. “I work at a senior living facility and I am tired when I get home from talking and being with people all day. When I come home I like the quiet and watering and checking the plants and making sure animals aren’t eating my veggies! It’s relaxing,” said local gardener Anne Cheramy.
Of course planting plants and participating and gardening help out the environment, but one aspect that is oftentimes not discussed is how much it can benefit the bees in local areas. Three-fourths of the world’s flowering plants and about thirty five percent of the world’s food crops depend on pollinators to reproduce. Creating more plants to assist in that pollination process encourages more pollinator involvement.
Connecting with food crops, growing one’s own food enables access to fresh produce at a low price. Due to this, healthier diets and more fresh produce inclusions in daily intakes are increased. “Our food supply is so full of artificial ingredients and the veggies are genetically modified. We should all learn to grow our own food and learn where it comes from. Nothing tastes as good as fresh produce from your garden that is not messed with and totally organic,” added Cheramy.
The individual impacts contribute to larger results as well. Gardening also has a positive impact on the economy. Consumer horticulture contributes $196 billion to the US economy annually and creates more than 2 million jobs. Gardening locally with smaller gardening places can benefit the local community as well. “Compared to a bigger box store, we have a lot of knowledge and help to offer the community about gardening and plants. The community has really supported us in the past year and helped Eve’s become what it is today,” said Eve’s Greenhouse and Garden Center assistant manager Cade Cameron.
Overall, the pros of gardening create a plethora of benefits for humans and the environment as a whole. Contributing to the environment while also reducing stress is immensely helpful for many. Participation in gardening is strongly suggested by a multitude of sources.
