Grow a Garden, Nurture Your Health: 6 Ways Gardening Supports YOur WEllbeing
By now, many of us have heard that gardening is good for the mind, body, and soul. I’ve heard it too—and while simply watching nature in action feels magical enough (we’ll talk more about that later), I was curious about the deeper why behind this idea.
I recently watched the Netflix documentary Live to 100: Secrets of The Blue Zones, which explores global regions where there lived higher than average percentages of centenarians. One of the shared habits among them - they all gardened.
So I started digging—literally and figuratively—into the science-backed benefits of gardening. Here’s what I found:
1. Physical Activity
According to the Mayo Clinic, gardening promotes functional movement. Tasks like squatting and lunging to weed, carrying soil, lifting mulching and pushing a wheelbarrow all engage large muscle groups and build strength. Research even shows gardening can burn as many calories as a workout at the gym while improving balance and flexibility.
Pro tip: Adapt your set-up based on the needs of your body - use a stool, a knee pad or try raised beds to reduce strain.
2. Nutrition
Eating organic, sustainably sourced food from your own garden equals better health. By reducing chemicals and increasing your nutrient intake, gardening helps build a more concious, sustainable relationship with your food.
3. Stress Reduction
The benefits of being in nature are unmatched in terms of stress reduction. You breathe deeper when you are outside which improves your immune response, increases oxygen levels in the blood, lowers heart rate and reduces stress levels and anxiety. Did you know bird songs increase your serotonin levels?
4. Biodiversity
Gardening not only supports wildlife but boosts human health too. Studies show that adding just 10 or more trees can have the same impact on personal well-being equivalent to a $10,000 raise – or even make people feel 7 years younger.
5. Focus & Creativity
Nature views and sunlight are linked to higher productivity and a better attention span. Just looking at plants can reduce stress and free up brain power, leading to enhanced creativity.
6. Social Connection
Front yard and community gardens create spaces for neighbors to connect, share knowledge and build a sense of belonging.
Tips of Starting A Garden
Ready to dig in? Here are a few beginner-friendly tips:
1. Start small. Pick one area or a few containers to begin, then gradually expand as you learn.
2. Plan with purpose. Research your growing zone, seasons and soil quality to choose the right plants.
3. Connect locally. Join a community garden or team up with neighbors – you’ll learn faster and feel supported.
At Native Roots, we believe in the transformative power of plants – not just for landscapes, but for lives. Whether you’re growing herbs on a windowsill or building a pollinator garden, we’re here to help you grow!
Happy gardening!
Christina
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