5 health benefits of plantscaping

Gardens have been sprouting in unconventional places, this is no coincidence. Plantscaping is not only a source of fresh greenery, vegetable patches, or making your house look aesthetically pleasing but it has incredible health benefits. 

Our bodies produce a hormone called cortisol which correlates to stress, when we feel ‘stressed out’ we enhance the production of cortisol which impacts negatively on our physical and mental health. Studies have shown that gardening (plantscaping) helps with the reduction of cortisol production, showing positive results with those who suffer from and anxiety and depression. Being outside in our gardens, our emotions are regulated and we are engaged in a mindful activity, not allowing our minds to wander off to negative thoughts. We are also surrounded by nature with fresh air, trees and plants which is good for your overall well-being.

Vitamin D is essential for healthy bones as it assists with the absorption of calcium and phosphate from our diet. When we are outdoors, in our gardens, we are receiving the necessary requirements of sun exposure and our skin is soaking up that Vitamin D. 

A 2014 Italian Study published on the National Institutes of Health website found sunlight exposure helped older adults achieve their adequate Vitamin D levels. 

NOTE: Don’t forget to apply suncream to protect your skin, as well as sunglasses for your eyes. 

Gardening is considered a moderate-intensity exercise. One hour of light garden and yard work can accumulate up to 330 active calories. Trimming hedges, raking and mowing your lawn will also help with toning and strengthening of your arms and shoulders. 

This is linked to our fourth benefit… 

Just 30 minutes of physical activity per day can control your blood pressure level and help prevent it from getting too high. 

Besides physical exercise, a vegetable garden can promote a better diet by supplying fresh and healthy produce. Growing your own food is more natural as you know that the vegetables you are consuming have not been contaminated with various pesticides and you are aware of what is going into your body. You are also contributing to a more eco-friendly lifestyle.