The benefits of gardening on mental health are many, and this has been proven by a substantial number of studies. Gardening has been observed to play an instrumental role in reducing problems such as anxiety, depression, and several other mental health ailments. Interestingly, the benefits of gardening can also result in lowered blood pressure and stress levels. So, how does the entire gardening process induce a healthier mental state? Let’s find out.
1. Gardening instills a sense of responsibility
Once you have planted a seedling, it becomes your responsibility to water it, ensure that it receives ample sunlight, and supply it with everything else that it needs to grow. As if you do not do this, the plant may simply perish. Thus, with gardening, you can develop a sense of responsibility, which has been proven to promote a feeling of self-worth. This can be beneficial for individuals facing any kind of issues in this regard. Gardening also provides a sense of purpose which is extremely important for individuals troubled by any kind of unfortunate mental setback.
2. Gardening helps you connect with nature
Stress and anxiety go hand-in-hand with today’s highly urbanized and technology-driven lifestyle. Therefore, in times like these, spending some moments with nature can prove to be extremely beneficial for your mental well-being. There are studies that have shown a positive relationship between spending time in green spaces and reduced anxiety and stress levels. When you indulge in gardening activities, you become one with nature for some time. Self-absorption, or being preoccupied with one’s feelings, can contribute largely to unfortunate mental issues such as depression. However, gardening provides an opportunity to make a connection with other living things. This connection helps in broadening our perspective towards life. Thus, gardening can be considered as a self-transformative activity.
3. Gardening can prove to be therapy for the mind
When you are worried about your finances, bills, and work all day long, it has a direct impact on your mental health. But, when you indulge in a relaxing activity, such as gardening, your mind forgets all stress triggers and focuses on the soothing task at hand. You begin to concentrate on gentle nurturing and taking care of saplings and the like. Consequently, your mind gets a much-deserved break from worrying. Thus, gardening can prove to be therapy for your mind.
4. Gardening boosts serotonin levels
Gardening can be an effective workout and, just like any other exercise, it can also boost serotonin and dopamine levels in the body. At the same time, gardening also helps in bringing down cortisol levels in the body, thereby making you feel happy and stress-free. When you plant a seed and watch it grow over time, it opens your eyes to the ever-evolving cycle of nature which can be a psychological benefit.