Just Gardening: why gardening is good for you
During National Gardening Week - Gary Hardman (our Gardening Guru) thought it would be a good idea to point out the benefits of gardening to your health
| ...more than 50% of adults said they enjoyed being surrounded by greenery whilst 53% said it boosted their moods. |
Hopefully, everybody is well, and you have been making the most of the amazing weather this month by spending time in your garden.
I would like to draw your attention to something that we can all benefit from. Yesterday was the start of National Gardening Week – run by the Royal Horticultural Society (RHS) with the intention of bringing all things gardening and horticulture to the fore. The week runs until Sunday 3rd May and is an excellent opportunity to find out how you can get involved during this period of lockdown.
According to Sue Biggs, Director General of the RHS, "this week, social media will be abuzz with inspiring videos and images….as we come together virtually to lift the nation".
In a recent One Poll survey, commissioned by the RHS, more than 50% of adults said they enjoyed being surrounded by greenery whilst 53% said it boosted their moods.
Take time this week to become involved and immerse yourself in the wonderful world of gardening. Not only will you give yourself a mental boost, but you will also benefit from the free Vitamin D as supplied by the sun. Because we may not be outside as often, Public Health England has advised everybody to supplement their Vitamin D intake to reduce any risk of deficiency.
Vitamin D is good for your teeth and bones as well as playing a positive role in your immune system. Glass blocks out the benefits which is why it is important to get outside to benefit directly from sunlight. Obviously, care must be taken to avoid overexposure.
By now you should have sown your seeds for this year’s flowers and vegetables but do consider those late frosts which could destroy your efforts.
If you aren't lucky enough to have access to a garden you can still grow flowers and food plants indoors. Try a tomato plant in the kitchen window or a small collection of herbs. Great additions to lockdown cooking and good home-schooling projects!
Click on the link to take you to the RHS website and commence your journey through this National Gardening Week.
Happy gardening.
Published: 28 April 2020
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