There’s more
Nonprofit groups across the country are also touting the many benefits of shared green space in their communities. These spaces not only provide the mental and physical health benefits of gardening, they also help create a stronger sense of community and belonging to the neighborhoods.
Simple neighborhood parks and shared vegetable/flower gardens have been found to reduce complaints about mental and physical health concerns for those who work in or use those areas.
Other benefits include:
- The medical journal ‘Biological Psychiatry’ reported that simply getting fresh air may help prevent Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder
- Shared gardens and green space can positively impact property values for the neighborhood
- The fresh produce adds obvious nutritional benefits by increasing the amount of fresh food eaten by the gardeners
- Caring for a garden is a good way to introduce children to the concepts of responsibility and reward for working
I am hopeful that this article has inspired you to get outside in the sunshine and garden a little bit. It is without a doubt one of my favorite things to do when the weather is cooperative. I have known for a long time that how much better, more relaxed I felt, after just walking through my gardens. Isn’t it exciting that now there is scientific proof as to why we feel better?