Spending time in the garden gives us all the chance to align with the seasons and the natural rhythms of nature. A garden is a reassuring place to feel grounded, soothed, and connected to the earthy world of plants. Garden-grown food and flowers have much to offer because of their fragrance, beauty and vibrant energy. We can bring our artistic expression indoors and decorate with a simple rose or a jug of cosmos, poppies and daisies. Cooking with fresh garden produce brings creativity into the kitchen and provides nourishing, living vitality for the whole family.

Healing Benefits of Gardening

Exercise - Muscles are developed through digging, lifting and raking. Walking, weeding and mowing provide aerobic activity. Connecting to the earth helps us to be in the here and now, and to get grounded. Best of all, the enjoyment and focus of working and creating in the garden makes the exercise easy.

Stress relief – the serene beauty, sights and smells of the garden are relaxing, calming, can lower blood pressure and inspire meditation and reflection. The fragrance of blooming flowers is a natural relaxant and tonic for the soul.

Structured learning – gardening stimulates the mind on a daily basis and is considered one of the top three "excellent mental workouts".

Improved Self-esteem

The hard work and dedication in the garden provides a great sense of accomplishment and increased self-esteem. There is nothing more wonderful than watching your labor transform into flowers, fruits, and vegetables brimming with vitality. Experiencing all the aspects of the growing season provides a great sense of creative achievement.

Social Interaction

Gardening is a marvelous group activity for the whole family as all ages can participate. Harvesting the delicious fruits and vegetables give gardeners the opportunity to share them with friends and neighbors.

Now is the time to begin the joy of gardening. Even if you only have a small space or a balcony, gardening can be enjoyed using containers and pots. I encourage everyone to have a go and harvest the benefits.

Gardening gives us all the opportunity to connect to our source, recharge our inner battery and align with the wisdom of nature.