There are all sorts of ways that people choose to bust the stress and give their mental and emotional health and wellbeing a big boost – but it seems that gardening may well be one of the best interests to pursue if you are feeling down and want to make some positive changes to your life.
New research carried out by mental health charity Mind has just revealed that more than seven million people say their mental health has benefited after taking up gardening for the first time, while 63 per cent say that spending time in the garden or in nature gives them a mental health boost.
Those asked said it helped them feel less stressed and that they felt the benefit from engaging with the sights, colours and smells of the great outdoors.
And even those without significant space outside to call their own have been able to reap the benefits, as well, with 43 per cent saying that caring for houseplants or growing plants or food in containers helped their mental health and wellbeing.
Paul Farmer, chief executive of Mind, said: “This significant new research provides evidence that gardening in particular plays a key role in bringing together a host of things that are good for our mental health.
“Taking in the sights and colours of the outdoors, nurturing and growing plants and finding space to connect with others can make a world of difference to how we feel.”
Therapeutic and wellbeing gardens are proving very popular at the moment, which could give you an even bigger boost. It’s important to design the space so it appeals to all five of your senses, so make sure you factor this into your plans if a wellness garden is something you’d like to build at home.
For help with the decking at your Chester home, get in touch with LW Landscapes today.