 Won’t you come into my garden? Richard Sheridan used the excuse that he would like his roses to see the young lady in question, maybe not a chat up line that would work today. However there are many reasons other than romance to enter into the world of gardens and gardening.
Horticultural therapy is now a recognised field and profession and uses plants, gardening activities and the garden environment to promote well-being and improve mental and physical health. We may know someone who benefits from such treatments and happily support it's growing (pardon the pun) use across the NHS. But do we think about how it could help us live a healthier, happier life? I have yet to meet many people who include 'must do more weeding' or 'visit more gardens' as part of their list of New Year resolutions. There are obvious benefits from any hobby which involves exercise and fresh air and maintaining a beautiful garden or productive allotment can provide plenty of both. But there are also measurable health benefits from just looking at a garden, a strong argument for creating a beautiful garden and the perfect excuse for a lazy summer afternoon in the deckchair. Just a few minutes looking at a view of trees, water or flowers can reduce stress and anxiety and induce relaxation. These are not just self-reported feelings but real, measurable improvements in blood pressure, muscle tension and brain and heart activity. So maybe this year instead of New Year diets and gym passes we should simply decide to make the most of our gardens and if we haven't got one of our own at home prescribe ourselves a visit to a nearby park or garden and simply enjoy the view, increase our daily step count and unwind.......
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