WHY IS GARDENING GOOD FOR YOU?

When you see a colorful garden planted in front of a home, you probably mention how the garden adds beauty to the property. Yes, growing a garden is an effective way to boost curb appeal, which is a fancy way of saying that it makes your property more visually appealing. However, gardening is much more than increasing the value of your home. At our senior living center in Everett, Washington, we encourage residents to grow gardens because it is good for them.

There are several answers to the question, why is gardening good for you?

Reduces Stress

A study conducted by Dutch researchers tested the amount of cortisol in the body, which is a natural steroid that helps the body respond to stress. The study concluded that gardening represents an effective way to increase the amount of cortisol. Gardening is even a more effective way to reduce stress than reading or listening to soft music. Another contributor to lowering stress is certain bacteria that possess antidepressant capabilities.

Beneficial Exercise

Gardening involves physical exertion, such as carrying planters, digging holes, pushing a mower, and stretching to pull weeds. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) defines gardening as moderate exercise that improves heart health, as well as prevents the development of diabetes. More physically demanding gardening chores such as chopping wood and moving heavy mulch bags can burn more than 400 calories. 

Boosts Brain Power

Your body is not the only beneficiary of following a regular gardening routine. The brain also benefits because gardening boosts cognitive function. One study concluded that gardening can lead to a 36 percent decreased risk of developing dementia symptoms. The primary reason for the enhanced brain performance stems from the need to remember detailed instructions, such as the detailed instructions for planting seeds.

Encourages Social Interactions

Although gardening is often referred to as a solitary activity, its true power arises when it is done with other people. One prominent example of the fostering of social interactions through gardening is the explosion of community gardens in the United States, especially in large metropolitan areas. From sharing gardening tips to telling compelling stories, gardening is one of the most successful activities that fosters social interactions.

Elevates Mood

Spending time in nature represents the most effective natural way to elevate your mood. From watching birds move about to listening to the rush of a nearby stream, Mother Nature is a potent elixir that removes angst. The same sensations develop when you work in a garden. As a result, you can experience a sudden improvement in your mood and even a boost in self-esteem. To maximize the mood enhancement of gardening, do not treat it like a chore.

Treat it like an engaging hobby.

Eat Healthier

Perhaps the most important reason why gardening is good for you involves the plants that grow by your feet. Growing fruits, herbs, and vegetables represents a great way to increase the nutritional value of your meals. One study found children are more likely to eat fruits and vegetables if they are homegrown. In addition, you can limit the amount of pesticides, as well as choose the type of fertilizer to enhance the nutritional value of your garden plants.MorningStar Senior Living’s assisted living communities across the United States have a passionate commitment to serving seniors, earning a reputation for satisfaction that is second to none. If you are looking for the finest assisted living facility in Lynnwood, WA, we encourage you to consider MorningStar at Silver Lake.