Rewards of gardening

Ever wonder why your body aches after working in the garden or doing yard work? People tend to think gardening puts stress on muscles and joints. However, it builds muscle and strengthens joints. Yes, it is true. The aches and pains from gardening are not a bad thing.

According to The National Gardening Association, ”45 minutes of gardening burns as many calories as 30 minutes of aerobics.” Racking leaves, lifting shovels, carrying soil and mowing the lawn are equivalent to working out in a gym. Racking leaves and lifting shovels are equivalent to arm curls, carrying soil bags is equivalent to pushups and sit-ups and mowing the lawn is comparable to walking on a treadmill. Finally, no more paying for a gym membership.

Other than gardening being a good source of exercise, it also improves the mental well-being of people who enjoy growing their fruits, vegetables and flowers. Harvard Health found a study from The Lancet Planetary Health where 300 gardeners wore monitors that tracked individual activity while actively working in the garden. At the end of the study, participants “reported greater reductions in stress and anxiety.” Getting a good sweat going on a hot, sticky summer day is gross, but you may find yourself feeling happier on a daily basis.

The personal health effects of growing your produce go a long way while also contributing to your physical and mental health. Harvard Health explains that homegrown foods help people eat more fresh produce while gardeners can pick out the fertilizer that fits them best. No more unknown pesticides, fertilizers or anything else touching your food now. Harvard Health explains further that “Vegetables that ripen in the garden have more nutrients than some store-bought vegetables that must be picked early.” That’s right, you heard it. Produce can be picked too early and sold without all the nutritional value they hold.

Getting to eat the fruits and vegetables you worked hard and cared for is rewarding. You get to save money, and the physical and mental aspect of it is something to appreciate.