5 Health Benefits of Gardening
With spring upon us, new plants are beginning to bloom, and warmer weather has arrived. The outside may be looking more appealing than it did during the cooler months. And maybe you’re looking for new ways to get outdoors.
Gardening can be a great way to take in the fresh air — and even gain a few health benefits while you’re at it. Whether you’re new to gardening or a seasoned gardener who’s ready for the next season, gardening has plenty to offer. So, what are the health benefits? What can you feel good about?
What Are the Health Benefits of Gardening?
If you need some motivation to tend to your garden or are simply curious about the benefits of your favorite hobby, here’s what you should know.
1. Increases movement throughout your day.
Every little bit counts!
While gardening doesn’t involve intense activity by any means, it still includes various movements. This is especially true in terms of functionality. When gardening, we squat and reach as we go about our tasks; this can ensure you stay agile and strong as you age.
One quick note here, however, is to ensure you’re not staying in one position for too long. Strain and pain are easy to come by when gardening, and this is especially true for repetitive movements or long durations in one spot. So, remember to switch it up! If you need to squat for some time, consider grabbing a stool to sit on instead.
2. Helps you obtain THE sunshine vitamin.
Let’s state the obvious: Gardening outdoors exposes you to sunlight. And this actually helps your body make vitamin D. Vitamin D is important for bone health and the immune system. The body makes vitamin D using cholesterol and UV rays. This means about five to 30 minutes of sun a day can be a good thing!
However, it's important to balance sun exposure to avoid the risks of sunburn and skin cancer. While you may want to expose some of your skin for a bit of time, balance this out by also applying sunscreen and covering up during particularly high UV times (such as between 10 am and 3 pm).
3. Enhances your mental health and well-being
Gardening has been shown to reduce stress, anxiety, and depression. The act of nurturing plants and being outdoors can improve mood and provide a sense of relaxation and satisfaction. It can further provide some with a sense of purpose, responsibility, and accomplishment — further contributing to enhanced mental wellness.
4. Connects you to Mother Nature.
Spending time outdoors and amongst greenery can boost physical and mental health. It reduces stress and anxiety. It fosters a sense of appreciation and gratitude. It also may help ground us, bringing us closer to nature in an ever-dense technological world.
5. May reduce the risk of dementia and enhance cognition.
Surprisingly, gardening may reduce dementia risk by 20%. Engaging in gardening activities can help keep the mind sharp and use areas of the brain you may not use much otherwise. It can also foster creativity and lower stress, both of which may lower your odds of dementia later on down the road.
Curious about other ways you can enhance your health and wellness this spring? Your back doctors at Tampa Spine and Wellness are ready to help. If you need chiropractic care in Tampa or simply want to learn more about how you can take your health to another level, book your appointment today!
