Did you know that digging in the dirt is a great activity to fend off symptoms of depression? This is partly because soil contains a harmless bacteria, called mycobacterium vaccae, which is touted for stimulating the production of mood-boosting serotonin. Mounting evidence also shows a direct link between depression and the time you spend outside.
What’s more, gardening can be a great mindfulness activity – keeping you in the moment and reinforcing the focus and patience crucial to long-term sobriety. Plus, it’s the perfect outlet for nurturing your creativity and your pride – just think how good you’ll feel about yourself when you harvest those juicy red tomatoes.
How Gardening Helps Your Body, Mind and Spirit
Here are some other study-proven health perks linked to toiling in the soil:
Here are some other study-proven health perks linked to toiling in the soil:
- A better diet (especially if you grow a small fruit or veggie garden)
- Improved mental health
- Better sleep quality
- Boosted self-esteem
- Increased levels of vitamin D
- Less stress, anxiety and mental fatigue
- Reduced risk of bone loss
- Reduced risk of heart disease and diabetes
- Greater ability to achieve goals
- More self control
- Healthier weight
- Better immune system
- Lowered heart rate
Why not give it a try? You don’t have to have a green thumb; just the ability to head outside, soak up the sun and start digging! Gardening is a great bonding activity to do with your loved ones, so if possible, make it a family affair.
Begin Holistic Addiction Treatment Today
Haven offers its clients a long list of holistic therapies that emphasize body, mind, and spirit healing. To learn more about our alternative treatment avenues, call our admissions team at 805-202-3440.
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