Cultivating a Healthier State of Mind
By Sabine Docteur
Let's face it, there are few activities that combine physical movement and nutritional enjoyment at the same time. One such activity that falls within this category and results in greater overall mental health is gardening. I cannot deny that when I step outside and get a good dose of sunshine and fresh air, it makes me feel refreshed and rejuvenated. Besides being outside, there are a number of other reasons why gardening is great for the mind and general mental health.
Develops Contentment and Reduces Anxiety
When a person is gardening, the length of time it takes for a fruit or vegetable to emerge is not determined by them personally. A lot of times, mental unrest could come from things that we cannot control. The practice of gardening facilitates an understanding that we are not in charge. The work is done by the gardener and then the wait begins for the results of their labor. Gardening practices can be applied to everyday life. Simply being outside basking in the sun and carefully tending to one's garden has a calming effect. So it's no surprise that it could reduce stress and anxiety. Having the freedom from worry and lack of stress, in certain situations, is better for our mental health.
Facilitates Connections With Others
Just like any other great hobby, connection with others through gardening enhances our lives naturally. This is because once we share hobbies with someone, we end up forming bonds and relationships with them that we would never have necessarily expected. Connection with others enriches our lives and contributes to better mental health.
Provides the Best Nutrition
Perhaps one of the most all-encompassing benefits of gardening is the fact that you get delicious fruits and vegetables out of your efforts. When it comes time to finally harvest, the most nutritious and healthiest foods come from home gardens. Ultimately, getting the nutrients from something that you planted can be said to be one of the best feelings in the world. The truth is that it is always best to know exactly what is in the foods you eat. When the vegetables and fruits are personally planted and harvested, the gardener has the knowledge of everything that is in there. This means that there does not need to be any fear about preservatives or pesticides.
Cultivating your own garden puts you in a great state of mind and even better state of health as a whole. Be sure to take advantage of this wonderful opportunity!
To learn more about your health, wellness and fitness, see your local chiropractor at The Joint Chiropractic in Richmond, Va.