To Inspire:

Sometimes it’s my colleague, Michelle O’Brien, who uses our Wealth Notes column to share the benefits of being outside. But after recently reading an article on gardening, I’m going to grab that topic and share the benefits that those who garden receive. In full disclosure I’m not a gardener (though I do love to cut my grass each week), but my brother Mark is an accomplished gardener (as is Michelle) and I’ve come to admire those who pursue this past time. I discovered five benefits and while I’m sure there are more, let’s focus on these today:

Vitamin D Booster – Gardening gets people outside where exposure to the sun allows your body to produce higher amounts of Vitamin D. Scientific research supports this vitamin’s critical importance to overall health:

• Strengthening bones against bone density loss;
• Boosting our immune system;
• Reducing the risk of cardiovascular disease;
• Regulating our mood;
• Furthering weight loss.

Exercise – Gardening provides an opportunity to move, stretch, enhance flexibility, strengthen bones and muscles, and burn calories.

Nutrients – Having your hands in the soil adds vital nutrients to our body – enhancing overall health.

Source of healthy food – Growing vegetables in your garden allows you and your family to eat well, spend less at the grocery store and contribute to the environment. Who doesn’t love a salad grown in their own garden!

Mood Booster – Gardening is a natural anti-depressant and mind stimulator. Breathing deeply, enjoying the sunshine and focusing on something pleasurable reduces depression and anxiety and leads to greater mental health and wellness.

There you have it – five great benefits of gardening. It’s May – get outside and plant some flowers or vegetables if you’ve not yet done so. You’ll be doing something good for the environment and for you!

Life – what a gift; let’s live it with purpose, joy and gratitude!

Written by Matt Palmer, Partner & Co-Founder