Right, kettle’s on! I’m settling in for a chat with Imogen, a passionate gardener and advocate for the therapeutic power of getting your hands dirty in the UK soil. I’m particularly keen to explore how gardening, especially within the context of our sometimes unpredictable British climate, can be a boon for both mental and physical health. I’ve always loved browsing articles about creating a beautiful garden, filled with colourful borders, but Imogen really opened my eyes to the deeper benefits.
“So, Imogen,” I began, sipping my tea, “what exactly drew you to gardening, and what keeps you coming back?”
“Well, it started quite simply,” she replied, a twinkle in her eye. “I was feeling incredibly stressed at work, chained to my desk. A friend suggested I try gardening, even just a little patch. I was skeptical, but desperate! The first thing I planted was a small lavender bush. The scent, the feel of the earth… it was instantly calming. That was years ago, and now it’s a full-blown obsession – a healthy one, I hope!”
Imogen’s experience highlights the first, and perhaps most obvious, benefit: stress reduction. Numerous studies have shown that gardening lowers cortisol levels, the hormone associated with stress. The repetitive actions – weeding, planting, pruning – can be incredibly meditative. It’s a chance to disconnect from screens and reconnect with nature, right in your back garden. It could be growing some plants in pots on a balcony, any size garden can have the benefits.
I asked her about the physical side of things.
“It’s deceptively strenuous!” she laughed. “Digging, lifting, carrying… it’s all low-impact exercise that’s far more enjoyable than the gym. You don’t even realise you’re working out. Plus, the sunshine (when we get it!) provides Vitamin D, crucial for bone health and mood.”
And she’s right. Gardening involves a variety of movements that improve strength, flexibility, and cardiovascular health. It’s particularly beneficial for older adults, helping maintain mobility and independence.
But Imogen also emphasized the profound impact on her mental wellbeing.
“For me, it’s about a sense of accomplishment,” she explained. “Nurturing something from seed to flower or fruit… it’s incredibly rewarding. Even when things don’t go as planned (and in the UK, they often don’t!), learning from those failures is part of the process. There’s a real sense of resilience that you develop.”
This feeling of accomplishment is a key contributor to improved mood and self-esteem. Seeing the tangible results of your efforts – a vibrant flower bed, a bountiful vegetable patch – fosters a sense of pride and boosts confidence. And let’s not forget the social aspect! Gardening clubs and communities abound in the UK, offering opportunities to connect with like-minded individuals, share knowledge, and build friendships. I remember reading articles about how community gardens were revitalizing run-down neighbourhoods.
We then discussed the therapeutic benefits of specific plants. Imogen swore by the calming properties of chamomile and lavender, often brewing them into teas. She also mentioned the mood-boosting effects of brightly coloured flowers like sunflowers and poppies. The mere act of being surrounded by beauty can uplift your spirits.
Finally, I asked Imogen for her top tips for novice gardeners in the UK, especially those seeking therapeutic benefits.
“Start small! Don’t overwhelm yourself,” she advised. “Choose plants that are easy to grow and suit your local climate. Focus on the process, not just the outcome. And most importantly, enjoy it! There’s no right or wrong way to garden. It’s all about connecting with nature and finding what works for you.”
She also added that looking at plants you like the colours and shape of can also be good way to start. Even finding a landscaper to help with the design of a garden can be therapeutic. If you can extend your home with an Orangery, this can add much enjoyment to the garden.
My conversation with Imogen really highlighted the multifaceted benefits of gardening. It’s not just about creating a beautiful space; it’s about cultivating a healthier, happier you. The combination of physical activity, exposure to nature, and the sense of accomplishment all contribute to stress reduction, improved mood, and increased overall wellbeing. So, grab your trowel, get your hands dirty, and discover the therapeutic power of the UK garden!
