Flower Power: Health Benefits of Gardening
By Brandi Goodman
Though the spring season is when some plants can start, it's closer to summer when many people have their gardens ready to get some new seeds growing. No matter when you choose to head outside and begin, there's power to flowers and the act of gardening. It provides numerous health benefits.
Improving Heart Strength
Gardening is physical activity. You'll be working some muscles and burning some calories as you tend to your flowers, vegetables, or whatever else you plan on planting. This is all good for your heart. The physical labor of gardening will have your heart pumping and working hard, improving its strength and ability.
Providing Vitamin D
The sun provides a beneficial dose of Vitamin D to your skin and body. Not everyone gets enough of this vitamin simply from the food they consume. Getting outside and doing an activity such as gardening can provide the extra you need for your well-being. Vitamin D promotes better calcium absorption that works to keep your bones strong. It's also necessary for your immune system.
Reducing Stress
Stress stems from many things. Get outside and garden as a way to reduce it. The physical activity that gardening provides is a great stress reliever, as is taking the time to care for something other than yourself. You'll feel at ease and have a sense of pride and accomplishment as you watch your plants bloom and grow.
Enhancing Hand Strength
Your hands have to work hard when you garden. This means you're enhancing their strength as you use them. You may find it easier to grip and pinch when you're consistently using your hands to tend to flowers. You may find them hurting in the beginning stages as you start to rake, row, weed, dig, and more, but that will soon go away as your wrists, palms, and fingers become more accustomed to the actions and increase in power.
Improving Your Brain
Studies have shown that older adults who take on gardening are more likely to see an improvement in memory. Cognitive skills can be kept intact when you spend your time engaging in physical activity that relieves stress, such as gardening. You have to remember how the process of planting works, such as how deep to dig, when to water, and how to look after the particular plants you have growing. You may experience a longer attention span and better problem-solving skills as well.
Get gardening and experience the many benefits it has to offer. You can spend the spring and summer seasons reducing your stress, getting lots of Vitamin D, enhancing your mind, and improving your heart and hand strength all from simply gardening.
To learn more about your health, wellness, and fitness, see your local chiropractor at The Joint Chiropractic in Mission, Tex.