The Healing Powers of Gardening

If you don’t garden, why not consider beginning this year? It doesn’t have to be a huge garden, though if you have the space, time, energy and desire- why not? A small plot in the yard, or along the porch, even containers placed pleasingly around the patio, can work. Be it flowers, vegetables or a mix- gardening is good for your health and good for your soul. 

Research has shown Earth’s soil has good microbes and bacteria which support the immune system. It’s been found that working and playing in dirt is beneficial overall to our health and happiness. Mycobacterium Vaccae, which thrives in soil, is non-pathogenic, and when you are working in dirt, breathing in the small particles, it becomes part of your body’s microbiome. This bacterium increases levels of serotonin and can help decrease anxiety. It may decrease inflammation in the body as well. 

Research has also found working with soil, such as in planting and tending gardens, tends to uplift one’s mood, can lower blood pressure, improve brain function and, if outdoors, gives you a dose of Vitamin D. 

The aesthetics of a garden figures into mental and emotional health as well. When we are able to gaze out on a lovely landscape, see vibrant colors, hear the singing of birds, the humming of insects- it can be calming and bring on a sense of peace. 

The healthy aspects of working in the dirt and growing a garden can be carried indoors as well. Who doesn’t love to have a nice vase of flowers? Have you ever sprinkled violets in a salad? Or brought a rose to a friend? 

Growing your own vegetables gives you more control of what you are putting in your body. Many home vegetable gardeners prefer not to use pesticides and chemicals in their gardens. Instead, they opt for companion planting which will attract beneficial insects to their yards to chase off the insects who cause damage. 

You also get a sense of accomplishment in providing food and beauty for yourself and others, as well as helping the living creatures on this planet. Children who help to grow a food garden will often eat their vegetables better- since it is something they grew! It’s also a teaching moment for them to learn science and math. 

Finally, if you end up with a bumper crop, you can freeze or turn to canning as a way to store excess produce and provide nutritious meals in the winter months. You can also share among neighbors, friends, and co-workers, as well as with the local soup kitchens and homeless shelters. 

There are some great resources out there if you feel you need guidance, either online or in books. Check out your local Botanical Garden or garden clubs. Most importantly, have fun!