Health benefits of gardening, why it should be more than just a hobby

Engaging in a hobby is important to keep you busy during your free time, fight boredom and also keep you healthy. According to multiple studies, dedicating time to a hobby can reduce stress, improve mood, and even improve cognitive function. Psychologists believe that hobbies like gardening offer a way to relax actively, thus keeping your mind engaged without the stress of work or everyday duties. This mental shift allows the brain to recover from stress and promotes  a sense of an achievement and joy.

Here’s how a simple hobby can transform your well-being, one plant at a time:

Stress relief: Gardening is a natural stress reliever. When you dig into the soil, plant seeds, and tend to your garden, you also nurture your mental health. Studies have shown that spending time in green spaces can lower cortisol levels, the hormone responsible for stress. The everyday gardening tasks, combined with the sensory experience of working with plants, can induce a state of mindfulness, helping you to clear your mind and focus on the present moment.

Physical exercise: One of the easiest and fun filled way of a workout is, gardening, as it helps to stay physically active. Activities like digging, planting, weeding, and watering involve a range of movements that can improve your flexibility, strength, and endurance. The American Heart Association suggests that gardening is a moderate-intensity physical activity, which can contribute to cardiovascular health and help maintain a healthy weight. Plus, the physical labour of gardening burns calories and promotes fitness.