Benefits of being In the Garden.

Sitting in my garden gives me great joy and peace. I love to see my flowers and plants grow and there is nothing more therapeutic than gardening. Pruning is my favourite activity as is watering. Both give a time for contemplation. Gardening has so many positives. Being outside in the fresh air is the obvious one. Here are a few more.

PHYSICAL

• Weight loss. One hour of gardening equals about 35 minutes of jogging.
• Improves blood circulation.
• Increases flexibility.
• Reduces bone loss. 
• Builds a stronger immune system.
• Absorption of Vitamin D for stronger bones.
• Improves strength.
• Improved co-ordination.
• Lowers risk of heart disease and diabetes.

PSYCHOLOGICAL BENEFITS

• Increased mental health-ie. increased neurotrophins
• Stress relief-cortisol reduction.
• Improves depression.- mycobacterium vaccae exposure.[ This is a harmless bacteria found in the soil that boosts serotonin in the brain, working as an antidepressant. 
• Boosts energy levels and promotes a good night's sleep. 
• Stimulates an interest in nature. 
• Gives a reason to get up in the morning. Provides routine. 
• Gardening helps dementia patients with one trial showing that it resulted in a slow down of cognitive decline over the next 18 months. 

COMMUNITY GARDENING

• Brings people together. 
• Common interest.
• Increases community spirit.
• Improves social interaction.
• Enhances overall well being.
• Gives a reason to get outdoors.

OTHER REASONS

• Growing herbs for recipes, soups, dips, salads, pastas and garnishes. 
• Flowers for colour, smell, and aesthetics and to put in vases.
• Composting. Putting all the vegetable scraps in to compost and spreading it around for fertilizer and help keep moisture in the soil.
• Vegetable gardening. Cheaper more nutritious produce.
• Attracting the birds and the bees to the garden.
• I love feeding the birds and have several bird feeders and bird baths in the garden. It is great to watch them feed and take a bath. It brings life to the garden.
• Some plants can repel mosquitoes. Always a good thing. 
• Trees. Fruit trees give you plenty of produce.
• Trees and plants promote life. They release oxygen into the atmosphere and absorb carbon dioxide. They provide habitat and food for wildlife and humans. They regulate the water cycle.

PRECAUTIONS FOR SENIORS.

• Take frequent breaks. 
• Be aware of your vision.
• Drink plenty of water.
• Wear a hat and sunscreen.
• Wear protective clothing. 
• Store equipment safely.

QUOTES ON GARDENING

• We may think that we are nurturing our garden, but of course it is our garden that is really nurturing us. Jenny Uglow.
• To plant a garden is to believe in tomorrow.
• Gardening is a wonder drug.
• We come from the natural world and are designed to exist within it. It's where balance lies.
• If  you want me I will be out in the garden.