RESEARCH

Gardening Promotes Neuroendocrine and Affective Restoration from Stress

This experimental study investigates the stress-relieving effects of gardening, demonstrating its ability to lower cortisol levels and improve mood more effectively than indoor reading.

Program Types: Therapeutic

Population Groups: General Population, Burnout/Workplace Stress

Setting or Context: Residential Programs

Health and Wellness Outcomes: Improved Stress Management

Allied Profession Intersections: Behavioral Therapy

Type of Activity: Outdoor Gardening

Evidence Type: Case Studies, Qualitative Research

Measurement and Evaluation: Program Effectiveness

Access: Free

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Summary

The research involved 30 allotment gardeners who completed a stress-inducing Stroop task before being randomly assigned to 30 minutes of gardening or indoor reading. Salivary cortisol levels and mood assessments were taken at multiple points. Results showed that both activities reduced stress, but gardening led to a significantly greater decrease in cortisol and a full restoration of positive mood, while mood deteriorated in the reading group.

These findings provide strong experimental evidence that gardening promotes physiological and emotional recovery from stress. The study supports gardening as a therapeutic activity, reinforcing its role in mental health interventions and stress management programs

Link

van Den Berg, A.E., & Custers, M.H. (2011). Gardening promotes neuroendocrine and affective restoration from stress. Journal Health Psychology, 16, 3-11.

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