“He who plants a garden plants happiness.” ~Chinese proverb
Recent studies have shown that this ancient wisdom holds true today. According to Eva Shaw, PhD, author of Shovel It: Nature's Health Plan, gardening reduces stress, lowers blood pressure and helps fight depression. A study done by Kaiser Permanente showed the brainwave activity of a gardener mirrored that of someone praying or meditating.
For many with disabilities or illness; too often the easiest form of entertainment is television or videos. Gardening gets them away from the screen and fills some of their day with gratifying and tangible work. Engaging others in gardening can give both of you a sense of purpose and broaden the scope of your relationship.
Gardening is one of the non-prescription interventions that has been shown to slow the rate of decline with those who suffer from Alzheimer’s disease and other forms of dementia. Dr. David B. Carr, a geriatrician at Washington University in St. Louis
The garden does not have to be large; raised beds and container gardens are very popular nowadays and require less preparation and physical strain. Working in the dirt, whether you choose to grow flowers, vegetables or herbs to grow can be very rewarding. The simple act of caring for the garden and watching the fruits of your labor blossom then ripen can renew your spirit and sense of wonder at the world around you. The smell of tilled dirt, a home-grown tomato or just-picked basil can be a reminder of past experiences or create new memories that can be look back upon fondly.
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Caregivers reap even more benefits when they introduce gardening into their caregiving mix. As a caregiver, you can actually step away from the focused, everyday caregiving process for a while as you do something totally pleasurable whether alone or with a loved one. Treat yourself to this gentle backyard therapy that will continue to offer rewards all summer long.
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