Thursday, April 25, 2024
These are uncertain times.
The risk of spreading the coronavirus is limiting group activities and inducing anxiety.
While little is known about the long-term community effects of this virus, much is known about individual activities that are deemed healthful, including gardening.
Not only does working outside keep you out of crowds, it has been known to boost both physical and mental well-being!
Digging in the dirt definitely requires concentration, which occupies your mind in a positive way.
When you plant a tree, shrub or flower, there is little time to dwell on negative news. The focus shifts to amending the soil, digging an appropriate hole, mulching, watering, etc. And when the job is done, there are more chores to tackle – keeping you pleasantly occupied and physically active for hours, which is why gardening outdoors is credited with reducing anxiety, depression and stress.
There’s been a lot of talk about binge television watching while many schools and businesses are closed.
Why stay indoors?
The sun is our best source of vitamin D, which is essential for good health. Like many good things, sun exposure requires moderation. Limit landscape work to mornings or late day and wear sun protection.
In addition to sunshine, fresh air benefits the body. It has long been used as a therapeutic agent – something that aids recovery from serious diseases such as tuberculosis. Breathing fresh air is said to boost energy and benefit the immune system, blood pressure, food digestion and heart rate. Gardening keeps you active and burns calories. According to sources such as the British Medical Journal, gardening’s physical activities can prolong life by as much as 30 percent. One hour of light garden
One hour of light gardening burns more than 300 calories. At a time when trips to the gym may be restricted, alternative “workouts” will help keep us fit.
Gardening is food for the creative soul. Love color? Plant flowers. Enjoy scent? Add an old-fashioned rose. Like to cook? Plant a vegetable or herb garden. Designing gardens and selecting appropriate plantings are rewarding and aesthetically pleasing.
Maintaining a garden and keeping plants healthy is a great responsibility, but one that breeds self-worth and a sense of purpose. It can supply food, exercise and beauty.
And in uncertain times, gardening affords a healthy sense of control over the immediate environment.
For answers to your horticulture questions, call the Texas AgriLife Extension, Hood County at 817-579-3280 or go online to visit lakegranburymastergardeners.org.
