Is Gardening Good for the Soul?
Gardening has been a popular pastime for centuries, and with good reason. Not only does it provide a productive hobby and a way to grow fresh produce, but many people believe that gardening can also benefit the soul, providing a sense of calmness and relaxation to those who spend time tending to their plants. In this article, we’ll explore the historical belief in gardens as a way to rejuvenate the soul, the psychological benefits of gardening, and the positive impact of gardens on mental health.The Historical Belief in Gardens as a Way to Rejuvenate the Soul
As mentioned in the introduction, Colonial America Quakers were among those who believed that gardens could help relax and rejuvenate the spirit. However, the belief in gardens as a tool for healing has been around for much longer than that. Ancient Egyptians practiced ‘temple gardening,’ which involved cultivating plants and flowers in specifically designed areas around temples. These gardens were believed to promote healing and wellness. Similarly, the Japanese practice of shinrin-yoku, or ‘forest bathing,’ is based on the belief that spending time in nature can help reduce stress and improve overall well-being. This has led to the development of Japanese gardens around the world, designed to provide a peaceful and calming environment for visitors.The Psychological Benefits of Gardening
Beyond the historical belief in gardens as a tool for rejuvenation, there are several psychological benefits to spending time in a garden. For example, gardening can provide a sense of accomplishment that comes from nurturing and growing a plant from a seed to maturity. This can help boost self-esteem and provide a sense of purpose for those who are struggling with depression or anxiety. Additionally, being in a garden can provide a sense of calmness and relaxation, which can in turn reduce stress levels and provide an overall sense of well-being. This is similar to the concept of ‘mindfulness,’ or being present in the moment and fully engaged with the task at hand. Gardening requires focus and concentration, leading many people to experience a meditative state while working in their gardens. Some specific psychological benefits of gardening include:- Reduced stress levels
- Improved mood and sense of well-being
- Increased self-esteem and sense of accomplishment
- Reduced symptoms of depression and anxiety
How Gardening Can Encourage Creativity
In addition to the psychological benefits of gardening, many people find that working in a garden can also promote creativity. This is because gardening requires problem-solving skills and the ability to think outside the box. Gardeners must often find creative solutions to common challenges, such as dealing with pests or finding ways to maximize the use of a small space. Additionally, designing a garden requires creativity and an eye for aesthetics. Gardeners must choose plants that complement one another and create a cohesive look and feel for their space. This requires a level of creativity and artistic ability that many people find fulfilling.The Positive Impact of Gardens on Mental Health
While the psychological benefits of gardening are widely acknowledged, there is also emerging science to support the connection between gardens and improved mental health. For example, a study published in the Journal of Health Psychology found that gardening can lead to a reduction in symptoms of depression and anxiety. Similarly, a study published in the American Journal of Public Health found that people who live in areas with more green space have lower levels of mental distress and improved overall well-being. Some of the positive impacts of gardens on mental health include:- Reducing symptoms of depression and anxiety
- Improving overall well-being and quality of life
- Providing a calming and relaxing environment
- Encouraging physical activity and outdoor time
The Science Behind the Connection Between Gardening and Improved Mood
While the connection between gardening and improved mood may seem intuitive, there is actually science to support this relationship. One study published in the Journal of Physiological Anthropology found that spending time in a garden can lower levels of cortisol, a hormone that is often associated with stress. Lower cortisol levels can lead to a reduction in stress and anxiety, providing a calming effect. Additionally, gardening has been found to increase levels of serotonin, a neurotransmitter that is often associated with happiness and well-being. A study published in Neuroscience found that soil contains a bacterium that can stimulate the production of serotonin in the brain, leading to improved mood and overall well-being.The Therapeutic Effects of Horticulture in Modern Healthcare Settings
Given the proven benefits of gardening on mental health, it is perhaps unsurprising that many healthcare settings are incorporating gardening and horticulture therapy into their treatment plans. Horticulture therapy involves using plants and gardening as a way to improve mental and physical health outcomes. This can include everything from community gardens to hospital-based horticulture programs. One study published in the Journal of the American Medical Directors Association found that horticulture therapy can lead to improvements in symptoms of depression and anxiety among seniors living in long-term care settings. Similarly, a study published in the Journal of Psychiatric and Mental Health Nursing found that horticulture therapy can lead to a reduction in symptoms of depression and anxiety among inmates in a correctional facility. Some of the therapeutic effects of horticulture in modern healthcare settings include:- Improving mental health outcomes in seniors
- Reducing symptoms of depression and anxiety in correctional facilities
- Providing a sense of purpose and engagement for patients in hospital settings
- Creating opportunities for socialization and community building among patients and staff members
