5 reasons why gardens are good for you

Whether you love to exercise outdoors, are a keen gardener, or just enjoy a few quiet moments in some outdoor space, we look at how gardens can improve our physical and emotional wellbeing.

It is increasingly acknowledged that gardens and green spaces are associated with better physical, social and mental health. When space became a premium during the pandemic, it became a priority for buyers, as ‘gardens’ became Zoopla’s second most popular search term.
1. They are a never-ending challenge for creation

1. They are a never-ending challenge for creation

Sometimes good and sometimes not so – we have all made mistakes with planting flowers and shrubs. Whether your aim is to encourage wildlife to thrive or just have scenic space with a certain colour theme, once you’ve determined what type of soil you have, what should grow, and what actually grows isn’t always guaranteed, and certainly challenges ones creative flair.

2. Great for connection

Whether it’s between us and nature, or fellow humans, we need connection for our minds, our bodies and our spirits. Front gardens for example, not only have curb appeal for your home, they can inspire conversation and can build bonds between neighbours, as well as passers-by. And private gardens are a great place to spend time catching up or entertaining family, friends, not forgetting a fabulous haven for any pets or indeed the wildlife that might wish to roam in your creation.

3. Growing your own!

3. Growing your own!

You can’t beat the satisfaction of a riot of seasonal and colourful produce, particularly when it’s all your own doing. Growing your own fruit and veg also increases an appreciation of the complexities that farms navigate to get their harvest into supermarkets and onto our plates. Along with the demands to keep things fresh but organic, and waste to a minimum, albeit, you might be working on a smaller scale.

4. They matter for kids

Not only as a space to step away from digital devices which are so ingrained in our daily lives now, but for them to play and learn. When children are given a chance to grow flowers or food, they can feel a great sense of accomplishment. Sharing their successes and skills while forging relationships between generations. How many gardeners learned at the elbow of a parent or grandparent?

5. You can keep fit

5. You can keep fit

From strength training to HIIT workouts, gardens can provide an ideal space for you to increase your heart rate and get your body moving. However, if you’re not keen on the idea of creating an outdoor gym, why not treat gardening like a typical workout: stretch and then alternate light activities with heavier ones. You might rake for a little while, then dig a few holes, then prune. Take some time to cool down by snipping flowers or picking vegetables, and you’re done! Keen gardeners might be delighted to learn that the number of calories burnt from 30 minutes of gardening is comparable to playing badminton, volleyball or practising yoga.