Gardens have been shown to have a positive effect on stress management. Simply put, they reduce stress.

Research has found that spending time in nature, such as in a garden, helps to reduce stress and anxiety. Being around plants and nature  has a calming effect on the mind and body. It follows that is assists to reduce stress levels.

Some of the ways in which gardens can help to manage stress include:

  • Reducing stress by reducing cortisol levels:
    Cortisol is a hormone associated with stress. Studies show that spending time in nature helps to reduce cortisol levels, reducing stress.
  • Improving mood:
    Being around plants and nature improves mood and reduces feelings of anxiety and depression.
  • Enhancing mindfulness:
    Gardening or being in a garden can be meditative and helps to improve mindfulness – live in the moment.
  • Providing a sense of accomplishment:
    Growing plants gives a sense of accomplishment. In other words, it helps to boost self-esteem and reduce stress.
  • Encouraging physical activity in the garden:
    Gardening is a form of physical activity. Therefore, it therefore helps to reduce stress by releasing endorphins and promoting relaxation.

Overall, gardens offer a powerful tool for stress management. Spending time in nature is beneficial for both physical and mental wellbeing.

Finally, we are not medical professionals and do not offer medical advice. Luckily, you have nothing to lose by taking the time to relax and de-stress in an outdoors environment while experiencing the effects of a beautiful garden for yourself. Go ahead – touch some grass!