Though many may focus on the benefits of growing your own fresh fruits and vegetables. Or even the amount of money saved by growing your own food, this article will focus on the other benefits of gardening. These benefits include an increased amount of vitamin D, light exercise for those of all abilities, and a form of stress relief.
Gardening can be for anyone of any age and of almost any ability. Gardening offers the opportunity to get outdoors while enjoying the sun and fresh air. This aspect of gardening is as good for overall health as the food that may be produced. When soaking in the sun, the body enjoys a good dose of vitamin D. Many people are lacking in vitamin D as days are typically spent indoors in an office or tethered to some type of electronic device. Since the sun is a natural source of this essential vitamin, a day spent gardening can offer some wonderful benefits. By increasing vitamin D a person may be able to alleviate some symptoms of depression and anxiety. In addition, the act of gardening and focusing on such a simple task can offer stress relief in a healthy manner.
Why Gardening is Good for Your Health: Gardening brings out the hat in the best of us.
Surprising Health Benefits of Gardening
Studies have shown that moderate exercise for those over 60 can decrease stroke and heart attack rates dramatically. Gardening is one way to achieve this. If age or disability makes it hard to bend and stoop, a raised flower bed or container garden is often a sound option.
These are often easily created with materials already present around the house. Just a few hours spent in the garden each week can help boost the immune system and decrease health concerns for those of all ages, but especially those over 60. As the garden progresses, an additional benefit is the use of the plants grown in unique meals that showcase all the hard work. If you create an herb garden, dry the spices and use them year-round.
Gardens can help with other areas of health that are often forgotten. Gardening can improve finger and hand dexterity for those who may struggle. This can be beneficial for those who are aging, those with disabilities. Or even the very young. Those with dementia and Alzheimer’s can also benefit from planting a garden. The brain uses many different parts to organize, plant, and care for the growing plants.
So while gardening may seem like an expected summer activity for some, it can be a beneficial activity for those of all ages. Choose a few plants you enjoy. Whether it be flowers, herbs, or vegetables and get planting! Why wait any longer, your future garden awaits.
