RESEARCH
Gardening for Health: A Regular Dose of Gardening
Summary
This article discusses the health benefits of gardening and exposure to green spaces, based on a review of multiple studies and research findings. Key methods used in the studies included randomized trials, surveys, and observational studies comparing outcomes for people with varying levels of exposure to nature and gardening activities.
Results consistently showed that gardening and exposure to green spaces can have significant positive effects on both physical and mental health. Specific benefits included reduced stress, anxiety, and depression; lower blood pressure; improved mood and self-esteem; increased physical activity and social interaction; and potential delays in dementia symptoms. The article highlights gardening as a particularly beneficial activity as it combines exercise, time outdoors, social connection, and nutritional benefits from growing produce. It recommends that health professionals encourage patients to garden and spend time in green spaces as an evidence-based, low-cost way to improve health outcomes and potentially reduce pressure on healthcare systems. The article also notes the environmental benefits of plants and green spaces in reducing air pollution and countering climate change.
