In today’s fast-paced life, mental stress has become a common problem. In such a situation, returning to nature can be an effective solution. Research shows that spending time outdoors is not only good for our bodies, but also relaxes our minds. When we stay indoors for a long time, as soon as we go out, fresh air and greenery give us relief. Gardening plays a special role in this.
Role of gardening while recovering from illness
The author shared his personal experience and said that when he was recovering from a long illness, he took up gardening seriously. Gradually, gardening became a therapeutic process, which started making him healthy physically and mentally. As the plants grew, energy and self-confidence also returned within him.
10 Mental and Social Benefits of Gardening
- Practicing Acceptance
Gardening teaches us that we do not have control over everything. Nature makes us realize every day that sometimes things do not go according to our wishes. The author experienced this when his children asked him for help harvesting his lettuce. Initially, he was afraid that the children would make mistakes, but later he realized that being left alone in the pursuit of perfection is not a solution. - Moving Beyond Perfectionism
Not everything can be perfect in gardening. No matter how much planning is done, insects, weather, and accidents can affect everything. So it gives practice to let go of perfection and accept things as they are.
- Developing a Growth Mindset
The spirit of learning from every mistake is the hallmark of a growth mindset. The author made a mistake in planting a seed, but took it as an opportunity to improve and made better plans for the future.
- Connecting with Others
One beautiful aspect of gardening is that it connects people. When two people are interested in gardening, conversation becomes natural. Shared experiences and tips create a collective spirit.
- Connecting to Your World
Putting your hands in the soil, feeling the change in seasons, and eating your hard-earned produce – all connect you to nature on a deeper level. - Bathing in Green
The Japanese term “shinrin-yoku” or ‘forest bathing’ refers to the fact that spending time in greenery is deeply soothing to our mental health. It has many benefits, such as recovery from surgery, relief from depression, and stress. - Being Present
Gardening is also a practice of meditation and concentration. Both the author and Joe Lampl shared that when they garden, they feel every sound, smell, and sight around them. It is a “Zen Moment”. - Physical Exercise
Gardening keeps the body moving. Joe Lampl says that when he gardens, he stays in many yoga-like postures – sitting, lying down, and bending. It also keeps the body fit. - Reducing Stress
Sitting in the sun, feeling the soil, and watching the plants grow—all these reduce stress. The author said that when he sits in his garden, he feels relaxed with every colorful leaf, fruit, and wind movement. - Eating Healthily
Fresh vegetables and fruits straight from your garden—not only taste delicious, but they also have a positive effect on mental health. Many studies show that a balanced diet can reduce depression.
Easy tips to start gardening (How to Get Started)
- Just start: Don’t wait to be perfect. Experiment, learn from mistakes if you make them.
- Start slowly: Plant fewer plants in the beginning so that you can care for them properly.
- Take care of the soil: Use organic manure and compost. Soil is the basis of life.
- Grow what you like: Easy and quick to prepare things like radish, coriander, or salad.
- Understand the needs of plants: Plant them only after knowing what kind of sunlight, water, and soil they need.
- Spend time every day: Spend some time in the garden every day. This helps in identifying problems on time.
Conclusion
In addition to being a hobby, gardening is also a natural way to soothe and heal your body, mind, and soul. The practice shows us how to live now, encourages us to be real about our boundaries, and develops our bond with the environment. It can soothe and balance the mind of anyone facing stress and depression. To begin, we should set out today by planting a tree.
