Day 20 - Growing things is great for wellbeing!

It’s a fact: plants & gardens are beneficial for mental health and wellbeing.

Today you have opened a simple little kit to grow your own Christmas Cacti - they should be blooming this time next year!

Studies have found that the mental health benefits of gardening & tending to plants are extensive. Not only can it reduce mental health issues like depression and anxiety, but it can also reduce stress and combat high blood pressure, as well as improving overall physical fitness.

So what is it that makes us feel good?

Connection with nature

Reconnecting with nature can have a huge impact on mental health. Studies have found that spending time in green spaces helps people to destress and relax. It also helps people to feel more at one with the world and overcome feelings of self-absorption that can worsen mental health issues.

It’s mindful

Instead of worrying about work, money or the everyday stresses of life, our minds are focused on the task at hand. Concentrating hard on a task is good because it gives our minds a break from those things that might be getting us down. It encourages us to live in the moment.

Different plant species flower at different times, and birds, bees and butterflies come and go. You may have a looming deadline at work, but the startling beauty of a new rose will only be there to appreciate for a short time, so make the most of it.

Taking responsibility

Having a living thing to care for gives us a sense of responsibility – if we don’t prune, water or care for the plant, it may die. This responsibility is beneficial for people suffering with mental health issues, as it gives them purpose and a sense of worth.

It gives you control

While you may never be able to fully have your life in order, you can decide how to arrange your vegetable patch or where/if to put in a new plant. You can choose plants in the home, what and where they should go to thrive.

Plants don’t judge

Plants can be nurtured and cared for by anyone without passing judgement, and keeping plants healthy can improve self-esteem and confidence.