Many people often think that only in the mountains or in the countryside you can find relaxation, family, fun and exercise in the great outdoors. But believe it or not, you can find all of that in the backyard of your home. Yes, that space in your home, whether large or small, can evoke many positive emotions in you, as long as you take care of it.
If you want to experience pleasant feelings while staying in this area of your home, it is essential to put a lot of care into its maintenance, that is, to practice gardening, which is the art and technique of maintaining and cultivating gardens. Interested in learning more? Keep reading as today we are going to discover the benefits of gardening
Vertical Gardening, an Investment Full of Life
If you live in the city, this option is ideal if you want to add a green touch to your environment. This way, you benefit by filling your space with life and health.
This outdoor activity not only gives you the opportunity to plant beautiful plants, have colorful flowers and pleasant smells and harvest fresh fruits and vegetables, but it also offers many health benefits, both physical and mental.
Watering the plants every day and getting your hands a little dirty with the soil, for example, relaxes you and lets you forget about the problems that weigh you down on a daily basis.
Being relaxed in the midst of the plants you planted with your hands can greatly influence your stress and anxiety levels, the quality of your sleep and rest, among other factors. Gardening also gives you the opportunity to eat healthy. Another of the main points of this hobby is the planting of trees and other plants, with which you contribute to the protection of the environment and the preservation of natural resources.
Below, you will discover other benefits of gardening for your health.
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Reduces Stress and Anxiety
Surrounding yourself with plants after a stressful day at work can reduce anxiety levels and mental fatigue.
Several scientific studies have shown that gardening-related activities have a positive impact on the treatment of depression, as they provide relaxation, improve mood and optimize the production of serotonin, a chemical produced in nerve cells that balances your mood and energy. In this sense, gardening helps regulate the concentration of this substance in the body in order to enjoy its benefits.
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Reduces the Risk of Heart Disease and Diabetes
Reducing stress by gardening reduces the risk of heart disease, diabetes, obesity and other conditions related to an unhealthy lifestyle.
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Improves Sleep Quality
By reducing levels of the stress hormone cortisol, sleep patterns improve, promoting relaxation and mental well-being for the individual.
Gardening sharpens the mind and keeps the brain alert, especially areas related to memory. A study conducted by researchers in the Netherlands found that gardening can reduce cortisol levels in the brain. Scientists say high levels of this hormone interfere with learning and memory. It can also increase weight, blood pressure and cholesterol levels. High levels of cortisol are associated with the risk of depression.
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Prevents the Onset of Alzheimer’s Disease
Although there is no cure for Alzheimer’s disease, there are healthy habits that can prevent it and promote good brain health, gardening is one of them. According to a study conducted by experts at the University of California, gardening can also cut the risk of developing dementia in half.
Other British studies also recommend the hobby for overall health, as it reduces stress, fights obesity, lowers blood pressure and prevents depression. Adults in their 60s and 70s who garden regularly have been shown to have a 30-45% lower risk of dementia in adulthood.
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Burn Calories
Gardening is a moderate intensity physical activity. Approximately 300 calories can be burned in an hour spent tending to plants. Supplementing this with another physical activity, such as swimming or morning walks, is convenient for keeping the body in better condition.
Now that you know all those benefits, what are your views on gardening? Were you already into it? Or if not, are you going to make it your new hobby? Share your thoughts in the comments below!
