The Healing Power Of Gardening

Life can feel overwhelming, especially when you’re focused on recovering your health and getting back to feeling your best.

That’s why I want to share how kitchen gardens can be so much more than just a place to grow veggies.

Whether you’re new to gardening or a seasoned grower, your garden can become a sanctuary—a place where you can unwind, breathe deeply, and connect with nature.

Let’s explore how you can turn your garden into a haven of peace and well-being.

The Mental and Emotional Benefits of Gardening

When you garden, you’re tending to yourself as much as you’re tending plants and herbs. For the past eight years, spending time in my garden has helped me unwind and smooth out the ups and downs of my anxiety (yes, the garden supports physical healing too, but more on that later):

Mindfulness: Tending to plants encourages you to be present, focusing on the task at hand and letting go of worries. The simple act of watering or weeding (my favorite!) is a form of meditation. There’s nothing more calming to me than taking a cup of coffee out to my garden first thing in the morning and soaking in the gorgeous greens and birds chirping to each other.

Connection to Nature: Being surrounded by greenery and natural beauty reduces anxiety and lifts our mood. Our kitchen gardens become a safe space where we can reconnect with ourselves and understand our place in the larger world.

Sense of Accomplishment: Watching our gardens grow and thrive gives us a much-needed sense of achievement, especially when other parts of life feel challenging.

Creating a Calming Garden Space

Have you ever felt so overwhelmed by the noise of everything that you want to go somewhere just to relax and feel the beauty of nature? Me too! For us gardeners, our gardens should be our go-to space.

If you don’t have a garden yet or are looking for ways to make your garden more calming, here are some tips to help you design a garden that soothes your mind and body:

Choose Stress-Reducing Plants: Certain plants are known for their calming effects. Lavender, chamomile, and lemon balm are not only beautiful but can also be used in teas and aromatherapy to help you relax. I love nothing more in my garden than running my hands through rosemary to release its incredibly calming scent.

Incorporate Soft Colors: Opt for plants with soft, calming colors like pale blues, purples, and greens. These hues are gentle on the eyes and promote a feeling of tranquility. My favorites are purple basil, kale, and brussels sprouts.

Add a Water Feature: If possible, consider adding a small fountain. The sound of flowing water is incredibly soothing and can drown out noise from the outside world.

How Gardening Supports Physical Well-Being

Gardening isn’t just good for the mind—it’s great for the body too. Here’s how the physical activity of gardening can help you on your journey to better health:

Gentle Exercise: Gardening provides low-impact physical activity, which can help improve flexibility, strength, and overall fitness. It’s a way to stay active without overexerting yourself, especially if you’re recovering from a health issue.

Fresh Air and Sunshine: Spending time outdoors, especially in the morning, boosts your vitamin D levels, resets your circadian rhythm, and improves your mood. Just 5-10 minutes in the garden each day can make a big difference in how you feel.

Growing Your Own Food: There’s nothing more empowering than growing your own nutritious, organic food. You ensure your health and well-being when you know exactly what’s on your plate.

Keep in Touch!

Want to create your own space where you can escape life’s stresses?

Click the link below and get in touch with me. I’d be happy to help.

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Nicole Jagielski

GARDEN COACH

Helping you incorporate growing your own herbs and vegetables into your busy, modern life is my passion. Most people believe they have a “black thumb,” but with the proper setup, I believe in your ability to grow more food on your patio, in your backyard, or on your balcony than you know what to do with.

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