5 Mental Health Benefits of Gardening

Those who enjoy gardening have often said that being in nature and getting their hands in the dirt can improve the mood, making them happier. Research has confirmed this, suggesting that gardening can significantly improve an individual’s mental and physical health. Unfortunately, many people dismiss this practice as overly simplistic. Additionally, some people feel that they don’t have what it takes to become a gardener. However, it’s vital not to ignore the mental health benefits of gardening, especially when you’re trying to overcome an addiction or mental health condition. If you’re wondering if our gardening therapy program could support your recovery, please contact Alina Lodge today at 833.685.1700.

Gardening Allows You to Get Close to Nature

Today, many people spend most of their time indoors. This action can seem more comfortable, but it can also lead to worsening mental health conditions. Fortunately, gardening encourages you to get outside and into the sunshine. You’re able to gain a healthy dose of vitamin D, which can come from sunshine, and breathe in the fresh air, which can alleviate stress. If you live in the city, you may have the opportunity to take part in a community garden, which can also allow you to get involved with other people in your community.

Gardening Gives You a Sense of Purpose

It can be easy to lose yourself in the mindset that no one notices what you do. If you are battling depression, these thoughts can be debilitating. However, through gardening, you have something to take care of and nurture, giving you responsibility, focus, and patience. Furthermore, your plants will notice what you do and don’t do. If you forget to water it, it may begin to wilt. However, continuously caring for your plant will help it to thrive. It also takes your mind off of events you can’t control as you focus on activities that you can.

Getting Out Into Nature Reduces Anxiety

Experts say that looking at flowers and plants is a relaxing activity that doesn’t incur any conflict or worries. In addition, it promotes mindfulness and engages each of your senses. As a result, when you take the time to stop and smell the roses, the levels of your primary stress hormone, cortisol, drop significantly. As a result, you feel less anxious and more prepared to face the day.

Gardening Increases Your Attention Span

Today, millions of children and adults have received an ADHD diagnosis, and many of them struggle to focus on one activity for extended periods of time. If you are battling a mental health condition and anxiety, gardening therapy can be a solution. Researchers suggest that gardening strengthens the attention span, and if you’re still in school, it can improve your academic performance.

Being in Nature Can Improve Self-Esteem

Unfortunately, many young adults today suffer from low self-esteem. Many people feel the need to compare themselves to those around them or feel pressured to act or look a certain way. Part of the problem is the continuous need to be on social media. When you put away the cell phone and head outdoors, you can reap the benefits. Through gardening, you can connect with the great outdoors, improving your self-esteem.

Learn More at Alina Lodge

At Alina Lodge, we know that addiction and mental health conditions can wreak havoc on a person’s physical and mental health. Through holistic therapy options, like gardening therapy, we can begin healing the mind, body, and soul, giving you the best chance for long-term recovery. Our therapeutic options include:

• Cognitive-behavioral therapy
• Dialectical behavior therapy
• Mindfulness-based relapse prevention (MBRP) therapy program
• Family therapy
• Group therapy

To learn more about the treatment options we provide at Alina Lodge, please reach out to our team today at 833.685.1700.