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The value of gardening goes beyond what grows in the ground

From the mental feeling of accomplishment to relieving anxiety, studies show gardening not only helps sooth the soul, it is also benefi cial exercise and a good source of Vitamin D. SHUTTERSTOCK IMAGE

Gardening is a great way to improve the community, beautify a yard or provide great-tasting fruits and vegetables. However, going beyond the roots, gardening has proven to be benefi cial both mentally and physically.

Studies continue to show that gardening goes beyond the plants and provides true physical and mental health benefi ts.

John Murgel, a horticulturist with the Colorado State University Extension program in Douglas County, said for him, gardening provides connection to human history and human life.

“Gardening connects me to the outdoors, to the plants and wild birds and native bees that live in my neighborhood,” he said. “Depending on which plants I’m using at the moment, (gardening) can be everything from childhood memories from family heirloom plants or veggies to people in other ages and in other continents going back centuries or further. They give me deep perspective.”

On the physical side, the Center for Disease Control (CDC) says gardening is a great way to get exercise. Gardening can decrease risk of high blood pressure, type 2 diabetes, osteoporosis, heart disease, stroke,

By Thelma Grimes Colorado Community Media

depression, colon cancer and premature death. Some of the top benefi ts of gardening include:

A natural source of Vitamin D: Vitamin D increases calcium levels, which provides support for bones and the immune system. For older adults, increased Vitamin D can help improve serum levels.

Reducing stress : Gardening has proven to be a calming activity for those suffering from anxiety. Whether gardening alone, or with a group, digging in the dirt, planting, growing and harvesting can help create a calm.

Good exercise: Gardening is a good way to increase physical activity without feeling the pain of a full workout. The CDC recommends being active for at least 2.5 hours a week to strengthen muscles and improve bone health and circulation.

A good after-retirement activity: For many aging adults, retirement can become lonely. Gardening has served as a good hobby and way to engage with neighbors and feel a sense of accomplishment as the garden grows.

Decrease in dementia risk: A variety of studies have found that gardening helps the mind, decreasing the risk of dementia through physical activity.

Creates a healthier diet: By growing your own food, which means vegetables, gardeners tend to have better diets, which improves weight, diabetes risk, and lower blood pressure.