If you’re looking for a way to get healthy and enjoy the outdoors, look no further than gardening! Gardening is a great way to get exercise, fresh air, and sunshine. In this article, Vikki Gerrard, La Crosse WI expert, discusses five ways gardening can improve your health.
Gardening Is A Great Way To Stay In Shape
Gardening is excellent exercise – it increases your heart rate and helps you stay in shape. By definition, aerobic activity is any activity that causes you to use large muscle groups continuously for a prolonged period. This activity strengthens your heart and lungs, improving their efficiency and, as a result, your overall health. In general, physically active people have a lower risk of heart disease, stroke, type 2 diabetes, some types of cancer, high blood pressure, and osteoporosis.
And while there are many ways to get aerobic exercise, gardening is an excellent option because it’s relatively low-impact (compared to running or other high-impact activities), it can be done at your own pace, and it doesn’t require any special equipment or membership fees. Plus, it’s a great way to get outdoors and enjoy the fresh air!
Gardening Is A Great Way To Improve Your Mood
In addition to being a great exercise, gardening is also a great way to improve your mood. It’s a relaxing activity that can help reduce stress. Studies have shown that spending time outdoors in nature can help reduce anxiety and depression.
So if you’re looking for a way to relax and de-stress, head to the garden! Gardening can help clear your mind, give you a sense of accomplishment, and boost your mood.
Gardening Can Help Improve Your Sleep Quality
If you’re struggling with insomnia or other sleep problems, gardening may be able to help. Being outside in the fresh air and sunlight enables you to get a good night’s sleep.
Vikki Gerrard, La Crosse WI expert, says exposure to natural light during the day helps to regulate your body’s sleep-wake cycle, also known as your circadian rhythm. This internal process tells your body when it’s time to sleep and wake up.
So if you’re having trouble sleeping, try spending some time gardening during the day. The fresh air and natural light will help you get a better night’s sleep.
Gardening Can Help Prevent Alzheimer’s Disease And Other Age-Related Cognitive Problems
A growing body of evidence suggests that gardening can help prevent cognitive decline and dementia. One study found that older adults who participated in weekly gardening sessions showed significantly less decline in memory and thinking skills than those who did not garden. Gardening is thought to benefit cognitive health by providing mental stimulation, social interaction, and opportunities for physical activity.
These activities help keep the brain active and engaged, which may help delay or prevent age-related cognitive decline. In addition, gardening can also reduce stress levels and improve mental well-being. These benefits may also help to protect the brain against age-related cognitive degeneration. Whether you have an expansive garden or a few pots on your balcony, consider adding some plants to your life to help keep your mind sharp as you age.
Gardening Is A Great Way To Get Some Vitamin D
Most people know that vitamin D is essential for strong bones, but did you know that it can also boost your mood and bolster your immune system? Unfortunately, many of us don’t get enough of this essential nutrient because we spend too much time indoors. Gardening is a great way to get some vitamin D because it gives you the chance to spend time in the sun.
Wear sunscreen and a hat to protect yourself from the sun’s rays. In addition to providing you with vitamin D, gardening can also be a great form of exercise. It requires you to bend, squat, and reach, all of which can help to improve your flexibility and strength. Not to mention, it’s a great way to relax and connect with nature. So next time you’re feeling low on energy or need a mental health boost, head outside for some time in the garden.
We hope you enjoyed this article on the five ways gardening can improve your health. Gardening is a great way to get exercise, fresh air, and sunshine. So get out there and start gardening today! Your body will thank you.
Barry Lachey is a Professional Editor at Zobuz. Previously He has also worked for Moxly Sports and Network Resources “Joe Joe.” He is a graduate of the Kings College at the University of Thames Valley London. You can reach Barry via email or by phone.