Gardening for physical and mental health plus enjoyment of the garden.

image from freepik 

     GOOD afternoon.  Posting this at 4:00 PM.  I am continuing to process tomatoes and getting all the equipment ready is taking time.  I didn’t do any processing last year as we were getting ready and gone to Australia in Sept. and Oct.  That was ok, but now I am getting back into it.  I do love the part of processing and canning.  Of course, the ping is the best sound you can hear when you are canning.

 I got a request for a plant for a young lady that works here for Five Star for her birthday.  I made up a succulent bowl for her and it turned out nicely.  I still like to plant.  Larry had a couple of customers that he got the vehicles done, so I got their paperwork completed.  That is my life work from the greenhouse, and the shop every day.  But Larry and I do find some satisfaction in helping others.  Thanks for the business. Now it is time to write this for all that read what I write. I have a good number of hits each day, so again thanks for that. 

Our weather isn’t cool or less humid like I thought it would be after the rain Monday.  It is still humid, and the temperature is 84F(29C) but the dew point is at 70 degrees.  It feels like 89F again and it is warm out.  I am afraid the weather man said all week it will be like this but the weekend it will be more fall like.  Sunday high of 67F(19C).  That will feel good and all of us will want to be outside working and enjoying that weather.   Stay cool, stay safe.

Australia family and friends for Wed Aug 20 will have another cold morning.  Evelyn said that it was -3C(27F) a day ago.   It looks like it is going to be that cold for them today. But it is a high of 61F(16C).  For us that would be welcome. Stay warm, stay safe. 

I saw this article on Facebook about the health and mental part of gardening.  I found it very interesting.  Interesting fact.” Some studies have shown that regular gardening may help to reduce the risk of dementia by 50%.” 

Have you ever considered that gardening can be good not only for Mother Nature’s overall health, but for ours as well?
For starters, spending time outside on a sunny day can boost our vitamin D exposure, which in turn can reap both physical and mental benefits. Being outside in the fresh air can lower your blood pressure and affect your sense of well-being.
The idea of gardening being good for the body and mind is starting to take hold. For example, the National Initiative for Consumer Horticulture (NICH) promotes the environmental, economic and community and health benefits of horticulture.
Gardening can be relaxing and a way to reduce stress and create a sense of belonging and connectedness.
What are the physical health benefits of gardening?
Gardening can be a great form of exercise. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention recommends getting 150 minutes of moderate intensity activity a week, and gardening is a moderate intensity activity.
Raking, shoveling and using a wheelbarrow are excellent whole-body exercises. These types of activities that require you to use your entire body have greater exercise benefits. In addition, carrying water buckets and mulching are good strength-training activities.
Growing and consuming fresh vegetables may improve your diet by providing a source of nutritious food. Research has shown that people who grow vegetables are more conscious about maintaining a healthy diet. Here’s a fun fact: 25% of American homeowners grow their own berries, vegetables or fruit trees, according to this infographic from the NICH.
Gardening keeps older hands strong and nimble. Research shows that older adults who garden have better hand strength and pinch force, self-esteem and overall physical health.
Prevent any injuries by using proper body mechanics and stretching before going out to garden.
What are the mental health benefits of gardening?
Gardening isn’t just good for your body — it’s good for your mind as well. Gardening stimulates the brain, which reduces the risk of cognitive decline. Some studies have shown that regular gardening may help to reduce the risk of dementia by 50%.
Gardening also can boost your mood. Studies show cytokine levels rise, which in turn activates the “feel-good” hormone serotonin when working in the soil. Specific bacteria in the soil also can boost your serotonin levels.
Gardening can be used to practice mindfulness by focusing on the different tasks, appreciating the colors and acknowledging the work you’ve done. Engaging in mindfulness has been shown to decrease stress levels.
What are ways to make gardening easier on your body?
Tips to help make gardening more enjoyable without hurting yourself:
Take frequent breaks, drink plenty of water and wear sunscreen.
When lifting heavy bags of mulch or dirt, be sure to use proper lifting mechanics by lifting with your legs, not with your back. You can also use a wheelbarrow to transport mulch or dirt, rather than carrying the heavy bags long distances across your yard or garden.
Choose the right tool for the job. Try using adaptable tools, such as tools that are designed for people with arthritis. Long-handled tools can help prevent stooping and back issues.
Use a gardening stool or chair when weeding, or kneel or sit on a padded foam cushion, to protect your knees.
Use alternative gardens — such a raised beds or containers — to bring them up to waist level so that you don’t have to bend over while tending to your plants.
Most importantly, know when to stop. That’s often a problem with avid gardeners, especially early in the season when they may be out of shape after the long winter, and more likely to overdo it in the garden.
Taken from https://health.osu.edu/health/general-health/health-benefits-of-gardening
Till next time this is Becky Litterer, Becky’s Greenhouse, Dougherty Iowa [email protected]  641-794-3337  cell 641-903-9365  Beckysgreenhouse.com  Facebook Becky Kerndt Litterer or Becky’s Greenhouse