There’s More Than Food in That Garden

What Gardening Can Do For You

(FinancialHealth.net) –  Looking for a new hobby? Gardening is an enjoyable activity that comes with serious benefits. Turns out it’s good for your health as well as your wallet.

Whether it’s a cutting garden for fresh floral bouquets or beds filled with veggies, a little backyard horticulture can improve mood, boost curb appeal and even promote cardiovascular health — not to mention save you some money.

Let’s take a closer look at just how great flexing your green thumb could be.

Improve Mood

One 2017 research review published in Preventative Medicine Reports gathered convincing evidence for tending to a plot. Regular gardeners experience fewer bouts of depression and anxiety. There was even an overall improvement in mood.

It makes sense that this practice can be good for a positive outlook. Gardening requires spending a lot of time outdoors, and nature is a major mood booster. Planting seeds and pulling weeds are also great activities that promote quiet mindfulness, according to Eureka Alert!

Add Value

Landscaping doesn’t have to be boring and gardening can add so much color to the outdoor space of a home. In addition to turning your front yard into a sight you love to come home to, adding decorative plants can add value to your home.

According to The Washington Post, landscaping actually boosts home value well beyond what is invested. A conservative estimate is that adding landscaping will result in a 150% profit when a home sells.

Improve Cardio Health

One of the most surprising benefits of gardening is how it improves cardiovascular health. This activity is generally considered to be low-impact. Working in the dirt is just physical enough to improve heart health.

According to a 2018 study published in the British Journal of Sports Medicine, research revealed that even 10 minutes to an hour of light activity like gardening is associated with decreased risk of a heart attack.

Save Money

Growing your own flowers and vegetables can save you money next time you hit the grocery store. Have you priced fresh vegetables lately? In addition, you know exactly what’s being used on your food in terms of fertilizer and other chemicals.

Beginner gardeners don’t have to devote themselves to a massive undertaking. A single plot filled with favorite vegetables or flowers is a good introduction to this wonderful hobby.

~Here’s to Your Financial Health!

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