Never thought that taking the time to get your hands and knees dirty could improve your health? Well, maybe it’s time to think again about why you should spend more time with the “skin of the earth.”
Why is gardening good for you?
Would you believe us if we said that gardeners and florists are some of the happiest of all professions? Research from British job satisfaction surveys – often cited by behavioral scientist Paul Dolan – suggests just that: people in these roles report higher levels of satisfaction in everyday life.
And it’s not just about the work itself. One of Dr. A study conducted by Nancy Etcoff found that when fresh-cut flowers were present in a home, people were more compassionate toward one another, had fewer worries and fears, and felt less depressed.
The tri-factor:
Flowers nurture compassion – Participants who had fresh cut flowers experienced an increase in compassion and kindness toward others.
Flowers drive away fears – Study participants felt less negative after having flowers in their home for just a few days. Seeing the blossoms in the morning was something participants looked forward to.
A boost of energy, happiness and enthusiasm – Researchers also found that flowers at home can also have an impact on mood at work. They found that when flowers brightened their homes, people felt happier at work and showed more enthusiasm and energy.
READ MORE: 5 Science-Backed Benefits of “Grandma Hobbies”
Stay on the ground
We hear it all the time: Get outside, connect with nature. But even something as simple as stepping into your own garden can make a measurable difference.
Spending time in the garden has been linked to lower stress levels, improved mood and better overall well-being. A large 2024 review of over 40 studies found that gardening has a significant positive impact on psychological well-being, quality of life and overall health.
Even more interesting? You don’t have to be an experienced plant grower to feel the effects. One study found that even beginner gardeners felt less stress, anxiety and depression after participating in regular gardening sessions.
And yes, getting your hands dirty can play a role too. Early research suggests that certain soil microbes may influence mood and immune function, although this is still an emerging scientific area.
But it’s not just your mind that benefits, your body is also trained. According to WebMD, activities like digging, planting, and weeding can burn about 200 to 400 calories per hour, depending on intensity. In other words, you move more than you think without it feeling like a workout.
Gardening can…
- Lower blood pressure
- Support cognitive function and concentration
- Has a calming effect on the mood
- Has a positive effect on mental health
- Combat stress and anxiety
- Older adults have a lower risk of stroke and heart disease
- Help reverse “attention fatigue.”
- Create a sense of purpose, satisfaction and success
A Norwegian study found that people diagnosed with depression, persistent low mood or “bipolar disorder” spent six hours a week growing flowers and vegetables. Results? After three months, half of the participants had seen a measurable improvement in their symptoms.
Surprisingly, this sentiment persisted three months after the program ended.
Better than yoga?
Spending time in nature is believed to improve meditation practice by focusing the mind. Gardening is considered a type of meditation (similar to yoga) that involves being present in the moment.
Zen gardens are perfect for reflection and contemplation, similar to yoga, where your senses are awakened, you enter the present moment and get into the “zone.”
READ MORE: 8 Simple Yoga Moves to Reduce Stress
Limit creativity
You don’t need to read books about how to spark your creative side – gardening is the solution. It stimulates creativity and allows individuals to express themselves in unique ways. It provides an opportunity to connect with yourself, your dreams and your passion by creating a space to grow, reflect and nurture.
Being creative means happy people. Several studies have found that gardeners eat more fruits and vegetables than their counterparts and that people who grow their food tend to eat and eat healthier…
Time to dust off the pruners and gloves and start planting!
