The soil is warming up and soon we will be, too! As I begin preparing the soil for planting today, I am reflecting on the growing process. When we till the soil, plant a small seed, and nurture it with a little love, we are demonstrating faith and hope for the future. And faith and hope are always a good thing.
Even if you think you don’t have a “green thumb,” now is the perfect time to experiment with some form of gardening: flowers, vegetables, fruits, berries or herbs. The benefits of growing a garden go far beyond the nutritional value of homegrown food and the opportunity to easily increase your fruit and veggie intake. Getting outside in nature can reduce stress, clear your mind, get your body moving and your spirit soaring. Did you know…
Research has shown that gardening is a great mood elevator. It can reduce our stress, anxiety and depression, can lower our risk of dementia, can help our bodies heal, and can increase happiness. The relaxation from gardening can reduce the stress hormone, cortisol.
The fresh air, exercise and sunshine can improve your sleep and give you a healthy dose of vitamin D. Remember you only need 15-30 minutes of sun exposure and then get on the sunscreen.
Gardening gives us a chance to exercise with a purpose. We know we will increase our exercise duration if we are having fun and gardening can be a whole-body workout: strength, flexibility, balance, dexterity, and endurance.
Gardening teaches patience, perseverance and creativity. It teaches us to slow down and gives us time for quiet reflection to renew and restore our spirit.
Gardening reminds us of the life cycle and our interconnectedness with the natural world.
Whether you decide to dig up part of your yard for a large garden plot, build or purchase a few raised beds, try container gardening on your patio or grow an herb garden on your windowsill, there has never been a better time to dig in and get growing for the health of your mind, body and spirit!
For an extra burst of inspiration, please listen to John Denver singing Inch by Inch—The Garden Song.
Blessings,
Coach Linda
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