Gardening has all the feels. Fresh air, sunshine, and a creative way to spend your day. Plants provide an escape from your troubles and a workout, too. Here's how it works and why it matters.
Luther Burbank, a well-known environmentalist who lived in the early 1900s, once said, “Flowers always make people better, happier, and more helpful; they are sunshine, food, and medicine for the soul.”
This idea feels even more important today, with so many people facing stress, anxiety, and depression.
A recent study from the University of Colorado, published in January 2023, found that gardening can help reduce stress and anxiety. The study, funded by the American Cancer Society, followed people who were gardening for the first time. It showed that gardening improved both their mental and physical health, especially for those already dealing with stress or anxiety.
Gardening is so good for your mind and body that there's even something called "horticultural therapy." But you don’t need a big yard, special skills, or professional help to enjoy the benefits of nature. Here’s how you can get started:
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Some people grow their own food, like vegetables and herbs, instead of buying them at the store. Others focus on making their gardens look beautiful by planting colorful flowers and greenery. They love the way the plants look and smell
Gardening is for Everyone
Gardening is flexible and can fit your interests, skill level, and space—whether you’re indoors or outside.
Outdoor Gardening
Planting outdoors is a great way to enjoy nature and stay active. The Colorado study showed that gardening improves health partly because it involves physical activity.
Indoor Gardening
If you don’t have outdoor space, you can grow plants indoors! A sunny window and a container are all you need to enjoy plants year-round. A 2015 study found that caring for indoor plants can lower stress and help you relax.
Things to Keep in Mind
- Soil and Sunlight: Choose the right soil and find a spot with enough light for your plants.
- Wildlife: Outdoor gardens may attract deer, rabbits, or other animals, so plan accordingly.
- Tools and Clothing: You’ll need basic tools, gloves, and clothes to protect you from the sun and bugs.
The Power of Flowers🌸🌸🌸
Have you ever noticed how happy kids look when they play in the dirt? There’s a good reason for that! According to Hannah Brents, a licensed therapist in Boston, touching soil can release “feel-good” chemicals in your brain and calm your nervous system.
Research even shows that healthy bacteria in soil can boost serotonin levels and reduce anxiety—at least in mice studies.
Therapeutic Plants
While gardening is naturally calming, some plants offer extra benefits. Ellie Borden, a psychotherapist, says that plants with soothing smells, bright colors, or pleasing looks—like lavender, peppermint, aloe vera, and chamomile—can help relax your nervous system. These plants can interact with brain chemicals to reduce stress and promote calm.
Other plants, like aloe vera, snake plant, spider plant, and chrysanthemums, help improve air quality, which benefits your brain.
Dr. Taryn Fernandes explains that rosemary can improve memory and focus, while colorful flowers like Gerbera daisies and chrysanthemums can lift your mood.
Why Gardening Helps
Gardening has long been known to support mental health. In fact, Dr. Benjamin Rush, a 19th-century physician, discovered that working with plants helped his patients feel better.
Today, Rutgers University highlights that gardening is great for people with all kinds of physical, mental, or emotional challenges—because plants are non-judgmental and welcoming to everyone.
But gardening isn’t just for people with anxiety or depression. Studies show it’s good for everyone! Researchers at the University of Florida found that gardening reduces stress, anxiety, and depression, even in healthy individuals.
How Gardening Improves Mental Health
Why is gardening so beneficial? Here are a few reasons:
- It’s Creative and Relaxing: Gardening lets you express yourself and unwind.
- It Promotes Mindfulness: Tasks like planting, watering, and weeding help you focus on the moment and forget your worries.
- It Boosts Self-Esteem: Watching your plants grow and thrive gives you a sense of purpose and accomplishment.
- It Creates Responsibility: Caring for living things—like plants—helps you feel needed and reduces stress.
Gardening offers more than just beautiful plants; it’s a proven way to nurture your mind, body, and soul. So, go ahead—get your hands dirty and start growing!
No Green Thumb? No Problem
Some people seem born to garden, while others worry they might kill even a fake plant. The good news? Gardening is a skill you can learn with practice, and you don’t have to be an expert to enjoy the mental health benefits!
Dr. Taryn Fernandes encourages beginners to start with easy-to-grow plants like succulents, aloe vera, spider plants, or even simple crops like tomatoes and peppers.
Expert Tips for Beginners
Start Small
It’s easy to get carried away by the beautiful plants at garden centers, but take it slow. Gardening takes time, so don’t overwhelm yourself by planting too much at once.Do Some Research
Spend a little time learning about the plants you want to grow. For example, some plants need lots of sun, while others prefer shade. And if you live in an area with wildlife, like deer or rabbits, choose plants they won’t eat.Visit a Local Garden Center
Your local garden experts can help you pick the right plants for your space and give advice about growing conditions.Match Plants to Your Lifestyle
Think about how much time you have to care for your plants. If you’re often busy or forgetful, choose low-maintenance plants and set reminders to water them.Be Patient and Persistent
Gardening takes practice and patience. Start simple, monitor your plants regularly, and adjust your care routines as needed.
Spring is here—so grab your gloves, pick an easy plant, and start digging! Gardening isn’t just about growing plants; it’s about growing your skills and enjoying the journey.