Jolene Hansen's article on the therapeutic benefits of gardening highlights why gardening is so important during stressful periods. Many studies have been conducted on the effects that garden settings have on an individual and how we can all benefit from spending time in a garden. Aside from the simple aspect of being surrounded by the beauty of nature, gardens can help in the following ways:
- Decrease in depression. Time spent tending and visiting a garden lowers the stress hormone cortisol.
- Eases the symptoms of Alzheimer's, dementia, and a reduction in prescription medications.
- Community gardens foster a sense of self-esteem, team building, social interaction, problem solving and coping skills.
- Post-surgery patients who were able to view nature through their room windows had faster recoveries and required less pain medication.
Read Jolene Hansen's article Therapeutic Benefits of Gardening HERE.
What are some simple ways to bring a little garden therapy into your life?
- Care for a plant. There is something special about tending to a living plant and watching it grow and thrive.
- Go outside. Spending some time in the sunlight and fresh air not only gives you some vitamin D, but the sights and sounds of nature are relaxing.
- Make a flower press. Instructions can be found HERE. Use the pressed, dried flowers to make cards to send cheer to a friend.
- Plant a fragant garden. Plants that engage the sense of smell can be calming. Lavender, rosemary, and lemon balm are just a few of the many wonderful smelling herbs to try.
- Share your bounty. There's something kind and generous in sharing the fruits of your labor. An overabundance of vegetables and fruits can be donated to a local food bank or be a pleasant surprise for a neighbor.
Take care of one another and be well!
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