“We might think we are nurturing our garden, but of course it’s our garden that is really nurturing us,” – Jenny Uglow. If you’ve ever had a garden then you know this quote to be true. Spending time outside with the soil, seeds, plants, and the beauty it entails can be one of the most rewarding experiences one can have. Gardening is a great way to nurture your soul.
Gardening is not only a great pastime, but in many ways can be really good for you. While most people think of a garden as a space outside with rows of flowers or produce, it can actually be a simple setup that can be inside your own home. The act of growing some simple herbs in a windowsill can offer some of the same benefits as a full garden outside. Playing in the dirt isn’t just for kids.
The Health Benefits of Gardening
- Exercise – Gardening can offer a hidden form of exercise that most people may not even consider. After all, you have to bend, squat, dig, pull, push, and many other movements. This may not be as vigorous an exercise as say, riding a bike or jogging, but it’ll certainly benefit the body.
- Immune System – Soil is full of bacteria. When you’re digging in it some of that bacteria is bound to wind up catching a ride in your body. Don’t worry, though, it’s good bacteria. A specific bacteria known as Mycobacterium vaccae is common in soil and it is a great thing. Studies have shown that the bacteria have been known to help alleviate symptoms of allergies, psoriasis, depression, and asthma.
- Reduces Stress – Gardening can reduce any stress you have. By performing simple tasks, exercising, and concentrating, gardening can reduce the amount of stress you have and help you feel more relaxed. Another slight benefit is the benefit of being exerted. While this doesn’t sound beneficial, being exerted can help cure insomnia so that you can get a better night’s sleep.
- Food – If you grow vegetables or fruits, then you’re benefiting from fresh produce. There’s nothing better than the freshness of good, quality produce. When you’re in charge of what goes into the growing of the produce, you control the outcome. Less pesticides, insecticides, and other chemicals. Just wholesome, natural produce.
Gardening Tips
- Wear Sunscreen – Because you’re probably gardening in the sun, wearing sunscreen can be important if you are susceptible to certain skin cancers.
- Sun – Speaking of the sun, pay close attention to where the sun shines the most. You’ll want a good amount of sun for the majority of your flowers and produce. Although, some plants do not require direct sunlight, as it can harm their growth. So, make sure you research what you’re growing before starting.
- Symbiotic Relationships – Try to choose plants that thrive off of each other, a process known as companion planting. For example: Native Americans used to plant three vegetables within each other. The three were corn, squash, and beans. The reason for this is because the corn would provide a structure for the beans to climb, eliminating the need for poles. The beans help provide nitrogen for the soil that the other plants use. The squash would cover the ground, blocking out the sunlight, which helps discourage the growth of weeds. The squash leaves also act as living mulch, creating a microclimate that retains the moisture in the soil. The prickly hairs of the squash also help deter pests from all three crops.
No matter how, what, or where you garden, you’ll enjoy the process and benefits of it. After all, you reap what you sow. If you’re a resident at a Bonaventure Senior Living community, then speak with your activity director for more information about gardening within the community.
Bonaventure Senior Living
At Bonaventure Senior Living, we have Retirement Perfected, Living Perfected, and Dining Perfected. The best way to see for yourself is to Book-A-Tour today and discover how you can live life on your own terms. We specialize in Independent Living, Assisted Living, and Memory Care, that way, no matter what your current situation is, we have all levels of care covered if your needs ever change.
Independent Living
With Independent Living, we want you to enjoy Simplified Living, allowing you to have the freedom to do what makes you happy. Our Independent Living is designed to accommodate the exceptional senior lifestyle that you’ve earned. What’s even better, is that with Independent Living we offer whatever supportive services that you may need at any time you may need them. Now that’s Retirement Perfected.
Assisted Living
Assisted Living at Bonaventure Senior Living is simple: all the lifestyle benefits of our Independent Living, but with any extra support that you may need. Our philosophy is based on three simple things: choice, independence, and dignity. Now that’s Assisted Living at its finest.
Memory Care
Every senior is a unique person, and our Memory Care approach is no different. We tailor our Memory Care by connecting with family members and taking time to understand each person’s specific circumstances. This includes mental, emotional, and physical health. Our Memory Care creates an honorable and professional plan to make sure that each person lives their life to the fullest. That’s the way Memory Care should be.
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