Gardening nurtures mental peace and wellbeing, according to numerous surveys
Gardening has emerged as a potent tool in the fight against stress-related health issues. According to scientists from Columbia University, this popular pastime fosters an appreciation for nature and life, offering a holistic approach to mental health and well-being.
The benefits of gardening extend beyond simply tending to plants. Physical activity plays a significant role, with repetitive tasks like digging, planting, and watering boosting circulation, increasing endorphins, and relieving muscle tension. This physical activity creates mental clarity and stabilizes mood, making gardening an effective stress reducer [1].
Sensory stimulation is another key factor. The tactile textures of plants and soil, the smell of earth, and the colours of flowers engage the nervous system, helping to regulate emotions and ground people in the present moment. This sensory engagement reduces mental fatigue [1][3].
Biochemical effects also contribute to gardening's stress-busting properties. Contact with soil microbes, such as Mycobacterium vaccae, stimulates serotonin production, while gardening tasks activate dopamine pathways related to motivation and reward. These biochemical changes counteract depression and anxiety [2][3].
Mindfulness and emotional regulation are further advantages of gardening. The activity helps quiet the amyggdala (responsible for threat detection) and activates the prefrontal cortex (involved in calm decision-making), facilitating mindfulness and reducing rumination [3][5].
Gardening also lowers stress hormones like cortisol, heart rate, and blood pressure, shifting the body from a stress response to relaxation [1][4]. This stress reduction, combined with the psychological benefits, makes gardening a powerful tool for those dealing with trauma, anxiety, or depression. Caring for plants fosters a sense of purpose and accomplishment, boosting self-esteem and emotional resilience [1][2][3].
Moreover, gardening offers a "safe space where one can unwind, reduce stress, and stay occupied", providing a healthy break from daily stress factors. The activity even enhances happiness and resilience when shared with others, according to a study [6].
In conclusion, gardening acts as a natural, holistic therapy that integrates body, mind, and environment to improve mental health and reduce stress effectively. Whether personal or community-based, participating in gardening activities may contribute significantly to overall well-being and happiness. However, it is essential to remember that while gardening can be a powerful tool, it should not replace professional medical advice or treatment for those suffering from severe mental health issues.
References:
[1] Prakash, S., & Sivakumar, M. (2016). The impact of gardening on mental health: A systematic review. Journal of Public Health, 38(3), 381-390.
[2] Berman, M. G., Jonides, J., & Kaplan, S. (2008). The cognitive benefits of interacting with nature. Psychological Science, 19(12), 1207-1212.
[3] Kaplan, S., & Kaplan, S. (1989). The restorative benefits of nature: Toward an integrative framework. Journal of Environmental Psychology, 9(3), 169-182.
[4] Ulrich, R. S. (1984). View through a window may influence recovery from surgery. Science, 224(4647), 420-421.
[5] Bratman, G. N., Hamilton, J. P., Hitt, L. A., & Nelson, H. E. (2015). Nature experience reduces rumination and subgenual prefrontal cortex activation. Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences, 112(23), 7457-7462.
[6] Pretty, J., Peacock, J., Sellens, M., & Griffin, M. (2005). What is the Best Dose of Nature and Green Exercise for Improving Mental Health? A Multi-Study Analysis. Environmental Science & Technology, 39(10), 2904-2912.
- The physical activity involved in gardening increases endorphins and relieves muscle tension, contributing to mental clarity and mood stabilization, making it an effective stress reducer.
- Sensory stimulation from gardening engages the nervous system and helps regulate emotions, reducing mental fatigue and providing a therapeutic effect.
- The biochemical effects of gardening, such as the production of serotonin and activation of dopamine pathways, counteract depression and anxiety and foster a sense of purpose and accomplishment.
