There’s no time like the present to talk about the benefits of gardening to your mind and body.
In the spring and summer I like to sit outside, I enjoy the quiet, Watch the birds in the bird bath and at the bird feeder. Oh yeah and the squirrels at the squirrel proof bird feeder 
. Squirrels and I are not friends
, find out why here. Next on my list: A hammock!
Gardening has many benefits both mental and physical. Size does not matter. You can garden on your big spread, a balcony garden or just pots . It’s all about the joy you get and the beauty and/or food it gives you. So next time, do stop and smell the Roses.
Let’s Get Physical – Gardening is a whole body work out. Think about it, is there any muscle not in use while gardening? There are movements associated to gardening that are not performed daily. Pulling weeds (is not fun), reaching for and bending over to get your tools help you to work muscles you forget you had.
***As with any form of physical activity, you should proceed with caution. Don’t over do it, if it hurts… STOP! If you unable to bend use raised flower beds. This activity should be fun and relaxing not strenuous. Prepare yourself accordingly, stretch before starting.
Mr Golden Sun – Please shine down on me. That golden ball is not just there to keep us warm, it also provides us with Vitamin D. In case you don’t know it, Vitamin D is important for your overall health. It benefits us psychologically and physically. This amazing vitamin helps us to absorb calcium, boosts our immune system and helps to lessen symptoms of anxiety. Of course protect your skin from exposure with the appropriate sunscreen.
Talk Dirty To Me – Gardening regularly exposes you to (good) bacteria in the soil. This of course makes your immune systems much stronger. One of these good bacteria is Mycobacterium Vaccae. It is common in gardening soil and we absorb this microbe by inhaling or ingesting. Experts believe these good bacteria help with allergies and give your immune system a boost.
Besides, I know you remember playing in the mud as a child. Come on, you know you want to do it again, just do it. If you have kids, it can be something fun you can do together (you also get the benefit of saying you’re playing in the mud with your child)
Give Me Your Heart – Studies show that gardening can cut heart attack risks up to 30% for people 60 and over. Just 10 minutes gardening can help reduce the risk of high blood pressure and cholesterol.
Mental – Did you know gardening reduces stress and anxiety? Gardening lowers cortisol “the stress hormone” levels. Stress is linked to obesity, heart disease, anxiety to name a few.
A 2006 study found that gardening could lower risk of dementia by 36 percent.
With A Little Help From My Friends – Right now we can’t be together physically but we can still get together online. Gardening is a very social activity. Don’t have a yard or balcony for outdoor gardening? Start a plant near a window, why not join a community garden association?
You grow you own fruits and vegetables, contribute to the community and best of all you meet new friends.
So with all these benefits, don’t you think it’s about bloomin’ time to get out there? Get physical, listen to your heart, talk to the sun, listen to the birds and make new/join old friends.
Mother Nature will thank you.
What do you do to get out there? What’s your go to flower or vegetable?
Don’t forget to reach out to someone, just to see how they’re doing. It does make a difference.
Who’s Your Dahlia –
It’s About Bloomin’ Time!