For a moment, a small Spring puddle held the heavens in a hole in the asphalt. The sweeping blue sky rippled in its hand. The banal and ordinary became extraordinary. Nature was again beckoning us outdoors into her captivating and therapeutic realm.
Spending time in green spaces has been proven to be beneficial to our overall health and well-being, but did you know gardening has its own benefits? Let’s take a look!
Exercise & Vitamin D
Gardening provides both anaerobic and aerobic exercise. An hour of gardening can burn up to 300 calories, and best of all, it’s free! Additionally, Vitamin D is primarily acquired through sun light, so soak it up!
Decreases Stress Levels
Gardening has been known to boost moods while decreasing stress levels. It has also been shown to decrease depression.
Boosts Your Immune System
Friendly soil bacteria, whether inhaled or ingested, has been found to alleviate allergies and asthma while decreasing anxiety, which also helps foster a healthy immune system.
Provides Healthy/Whole Foods
You’ll know exactly what’s in your food when you grow and harvest it yourself!
Provides a Creative Outlet
Gardening is a wonderful way to express yourself. Try something new each season. You are only limited by your imagination!
Enhances Emotional/Spiritual Well Being
Gardens can serve as tranquil retreats. Many find the act of gardening to be therapeutic. It can also help boost self-esteem and confidence.
Challenges Your Brain
In addition to exercising the body, gardening can help keep your brain nimble. Learn how to garden through trial and error, keep a journal, pick up a book, and feed your brain.
Gardens are a feast for the senses, and their aesthetic appeal is undeniable. You needn’t a large space, or a ton of money – just the drive to reconnect with nature, and in doing so, your health and well being will benefit as well. Reach out to Sweeney’s, and we’ll help get you started! We proudly serve the communities of Villa Park, Elmhurst, Oakbrook, Oakbrook Terrace, Glen Ellyn, Lombard, Wood Dale, Itasca, and more!
Sweeney’s: A Plant Based Company
Plant of the Week
Happy Returns Daylily
Showy, buttery-yellow flowers bloom on tall stems, amongst grass-like foliage June – August. Prefers full sun, and moist, well-drained soil. Grows 12-18″ tall and 18-24″ wide. Attracts hummingbirds, butterflies and other pollinators. Salt tolerant. Rabbit resistant.
“My little bit of earth in the front garden is one of the places that I find my bearings. The rhythm of my day begins with a cup of coffee and a little bit of weeding or dreaming.”
~Betsy Cañas Garmon
Well wishes,
Kim Sweeney
