Gardening is the process of cultivating and growing plants in soil as a part of dormancy. In early gardens, decorative plants are typically grown for their attractive foliage, flowers, or greenery; other useful plants, like herbs, are grown for the aromatic value of the plant rather than its usefulness in the ground. Almost any type of plant can be used to cultivate, including grass, bushes, trees, flowers, vegetables, fruits, and herbs. Most gardeners have a personal favorite plant or two that they enjoy growing and may make gardening an enjoyable pastime.
Plants that can help reduce the risk of several types of diseases, including cancer, have also shown promise as “superfoods.” These include a host of Asian vegetables like cabbage, kale, mustard greens, dandelions, and turnips, and lesser-known plants such as chickpeas, peanuts, and almonds. Other herbs and spices that have been shown to provide antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and immune system boosting properties include basil, sage, turmeric, garlic, and oregano. Herbs and spices used to prepare dishes with a reduced risk of cancer, diabetes, heart disease, and obesity include artichoke, parsley, cilantro, bok choy, brussel sprouts, cauliflower, and Brussels sprouts.
Studies indicate that gardening not only helps strengthen the immune system, it improves overall health. Because plants provide the needed sunshine, water, and air, gardening offers a simple way to get plenty of exercise. In addition, most gardening activities help improve your mood. Scientific research has indicated that gardening reduces stress levels because of the interaction of the physical environment with your immune system. Gardening also appears to relieve depression and improve general well-being among long-term gardeners.
Gardening is not limited to plants grown in soil. There are many examples of gardens you can grow using only lightweight containers or pots. Plants grown in hydroponic medium can be displayed almost anywhere indoors and look just as good as their “landscape” counterparts. Plants grown in containers indoors can be moved as needed to accommodate changing needs throughout the day. Some examples of indoor plants that are suitable for container gardening include lettuce, spinach, carrots, radishes, and cucumbers.
Many people find gardening very relaxing. When plants are selected and placed in the appropriate spaces in a garden, the gardener is able to relax and let go of worries about the day. Gardening gives people an opportunity to reduce their daily stress through the quieting and / or elimination of noise. When plants are chosen and placed in the appropriate spaces in a garden, the gardener is able to relax and let go of worries about the day. Gardening offers a simple solution for people who live in apartments or small spaces where they may need additional seating. Many people who decide to start gardening find it to be a very relaxing and enjoyable hobby.
The physical activity of gardening can also benefit the health of people who participate. Children who play in gardens tend to have healthier bodies due to the fact that they burn more calories and lose excess body fat when they engage in physical activity. The activity that takes place is also beneficial to the mental health of children; children who play in gardens tend to have healthier mental outlooks than those who do not.
This content is contributed by Guestomatic
