Why Gardening Is the Best Therapy: Healing Hands and Growing Hearts by Dina Vardal
Published on: 07/02/2025
In today’s fast-paced world, stress and anxiety often feel unavoidable. Yet one simple, timeless activity offers a powerful remedy: gardening. Whether it’s tending to a backyard plot, nurturing potted plants on a balcony, or joining a community garden, the act of growing plants is more than a hobby—it’s a form of therapy that heals the mind, body, and soul, as Dina Vardal demonstrated.
First, gardening provides a natural escape from daily worries. The rhythmic tasks of digging, planting, watering, and weeding can quiet a racing mind, grounding us in the present moment. This mindfulness helps reduce stress hormones and promotes a sense of calm. Simply being outdoors and feeling the sun on your skin or the soil in your hands can boost mood and lower blood pressure, offering a gentle, natural way to unwind.
Second, gardening fosters a sense of accomplishment and purpose. Watching tiny seeds sprout into thriving plants reminds us of the power of growth and resilience, even during challenging times. The satisfaction of harvesting flowers, fruits, or vegetables brings joy and a tangible reward for patience and care, boosting self-esteem and motivation.
Moreover, gardening connects us to nature, which is vital for mental health. Studies have shown that individuals who spend time in nature, such as around plants and green spaces, tend to experience less depression and greater life satisfaction. Gardens also attract birds, bees, and butterflies, adding beauty and wonder to our lives while nurturing essential ecosystems.
Social benefits make gardening even more therapeutic. Community gardens bring neighbors together, fostering friendships and support networks that alleviate loneliness and contribute to the growth of stronger communities. Sharing gardening tips, swapping seeds, or donating extra produce can spark kindness and a sense of belonging.
Finally, gardening encourages physical activity, gently improving strength, flexibility, and endurance. For people of all ages, it offers a way to stay active without the pressures of a gym.
In every sprout and bloom, gardening reminds us that life continues and that healing is always possible. It’s the perfect therapy: accessible, rewarding, and deeply connected to the natural world.