Gardening For Your Health

Have you ever wondered why gardening makes you feel so good?

Numerous studies have found that the mental health benefits of gardening are extensive. Not only can regular gardening reduce mental health problems like depression and anxiety, but it can also reduce stress and combat high blood pressure, as well as improving overall physical fitness.

Need more motivation to don your sunhat and dig in your garden this weekend?

Did you know that there is a natural antidepressant in soil? It’s true. Mycobacterium vaccae is the substance being studied and has been found to mirror the effect on neurons that drugs like Prozac provide. The bacterium is found in soil and may stimulate serotonin production, which makes you relaxed and happier. According to Bonnie L. Grant, Certified Urban Agriculturist , in an article in Gardening Know How working and playing in soil can make you happy!

Mycobacterium vaccae under the microscope

This recent study published by Colorado University – Boulder has linked soil bacteria to mental health. There is a growing recognition that the microbiome can impact health in general and, more specifically, mental health,” said Dr. Jeffrey Borenstein, president of the Brain and Behavior Research Foundation.

So reach for your hat and sunscreen and Plant Something this weekend!