5 Ways Gardening Improves Health

By Brandi Swieter

Gardening starts in the springtime for many people as they begin preparing their soil for the vegetables and flowers they’re hoping will flourish as the summer months near. This practice isn’t just a way to get people outside and doing something to fill their time. There are actually several health benefits the activity brings, making it a great choice for anyone looking to improve their health.

Fights Stress to Boost Mood

Stress stems from all sorts of problems. To fight it, people often look to outside sources to help them cope. Daily journaling, spending time with friends, and taking some personal time are all great ways to combat stress. One of the best methods for fighting it, however, is gardening. Getting outdoors and digging in the dirt helps to boost the mood and lower levels of the stress hormone cortisol in their bodies.

Improves Strength and Stamina

Many people may not realize just how tough gardening can be. It works various muscles of the body and improves strength and stamina as people often have to spend hours getting all the work completed. While bending to grab tools, reaching to rake, and pulling weeds, the body gets twisted and turned continuously to work several muscle groups, particularly in the core and arms.

Reduces the Risk for Memory Diseases

Older adults who take up gardening seem to have a lowered chance of developing dementia. By completing this sort of physical activity and having their mood boosted, memory diseases are put at bay. The task reduces the risk and helps to keep the mind sharp as there are certain steps to the process to remember.

Strengthens the Immune System

The sun provides plenty of exposure to Vitamin D, which in turn helps build calcium in the body. This calcium can work to keep bones strong and boost the immune system. Gardening puts people in the sun, often for hours in a day. They receive plenty of Vitamin D while doing this activity.

Provides Healthy Foods

Eating healthy is one of the best things people can do to keep both their minds and their bodies strong. Starting a personal garden helps people grow their own vegetables and fruits with no added chemicals or pesticides. They have easy access to health foods that are good for the body, thus promoting their overall health and wellness.

Try your hand at gardening and reap the benefits. At least five health benefits come from the activity, giving people an improved life and peace of mind. People don’t have to have a green thumb to get these advantages, either. Simply trying out a few garden-related activities will boost the mood well enough.

To learn more about your health, wellness, and fitness, see your local chiropractor at The Joint Chiropractic in Peachtree City, Ga.

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