I’m a gardening guru and it’s more than just a hobby – the 3 health benefits you need to know
GARDENING is more than just a hobby or a way to beautify your surroundings, according to an expert.
Getting your hands dirty in the outdoors can actually drastically improve physical and mental health.
Not only does it reduce stress and help prevent heart disease, it also burns more calories than weightlifting.
Cheryl Harper, managing director at Greensleeves Lawn Care, shares her top three reasons why you should grab some gloves pronto.
1. It’s a cracking workout
“Anyone who’s done a hard afternoon gardening will tell you it’s a full-body workout at times,” Cheryl said.
“Who needs a gym when you can get your heart pumping and work several different muscle groups by digging out weeds, watering plants, and mowing the lawn?”
Research by Harvard Medical School revealed the average person burns 162 calories from 30 minutes of gardening.
By contrast, weightlifting burns 108kcal, water aerobics 144kcl and badminton 141kcl in the same timeframe.
“Pushing your lawn mower acts as an efficient cardiovascular workout and the repetition of going up and down the garden is proven to deliver a serious calorie burn and be a great way to work your entire body and improve your heart health,” Cheryl added.
2. It boosts mental health
Most people accept that being surrounded by greenery has a calming effect.
But the physical act of working on the trees, bushes, plants and lawn yourself can have huge psychological benefits.
A King’s Fund report uncovered it can reduce depression and anxiety, and improve social functioning.
There’s even an antidepressant in the microbes in soil, which stimulates serotonin, making you feel more relaxed.
Studies have also shown that exposure to the smell of freshly cut grass can slash stress and enhance your mood.
Plus it can be a social activity as it’s easy to get your family and friends involved too.
Cheryl said: “Gardening can provide a sense of accomplishment, mastery of a new skill, connection to nature, relaxation, and social interaction, all of which can improve your self-esteem and overall wellbeing.”
3. It slashes the risk of long-term conditions
If exercise and mental health benefits weren’t enough, scientists reckon gardening can help starve off long-term health problems.
Research shows it reduces the risk of heart disease, lowers blood pressure and improves the immune system.
It is also a great way to get your daily dose of vitamin D, which promotes strong bones and muscles and lowers your chances of inflammation and dementia.
And growing your own produce can help with symptoms of the menopause, according to specialist Dr Louise Newson.
She said: “As well as looking at treatments for symptoms, such as HRT, it’s really important to take a holistic approach to menopause, including exercise and taking care of your mental health.
“That’s where gardening can come in. It’s a great form of exercise, particularly if you are suffering from joint aches and pains that low oestrogen levels can cause, and may not be able to go for a run or feel like a high-intensity exercise class.
“Heavy gardening like digging helps build strength, which is particularly important for women in mid-life to help keep bones strong, as the risk of developing osteoporosis rises after the menopause.”
Cheryl said: “Gardening is more than just a hobby or a way to beautify your surroundings.”