Growing your own is great for wellbeing
National growing for wellbeing week takes place this year from 5th to 11th June. It is a UK-based campaign, created by mental health organisation, Life at No.27. The campaign focuses on celebrating how great growing your own produce is for your physical and mental wellbeing.
Around one in four people will experience mental illness of some kind each year. Growing evidence shows that immersing yourself into nature and gardening will improve your mental wellbeing, such as increasing your confidence, communication skills, and concentration.
Expanding green spaces is also excellent for the environment as they boost nature for wildlife and clean our air, a bonus for our lung health.
So, interested in getting started?
- Start small – The first step to gardening is to start small. Whether you have a garden, balcony, windowsill, or terrace, creating a small green space by using pots to grow some of your favourite plants will boost your physical and mental wellbeing. Try herbs for an easy indoor win.
- No garden? Join a community garden – Joining a community garden helps to build your sense of community, gardening skills and may give you a larger area to work with. A community garden boosts feelings of belonging and reduces feelings of loneliness. But if you'd rather grow at home, any window sill can become a mini greenhouse, grow herbs, cress or spring onions in small pots.
- Eat what you grow – Growing your own five-a-day will reduce carbon emissions and plastic waste from shop bought veggies. It may also provide you with feelings of success, which will boost your mental wellbeing and it's also a delight to watch them grow.
- Volunteer – If you are struggling with space, consider volunteering in the local community parks. This is a way to give back to the community whilst getting involved with conservation projects, including tree planting, and maintaining green spaces. Contact your local council to get involved.
- Attend workshops – Look for gardening workshops and events in your local area. This gives you the opportunity to boost your skills and learn helpful tips to keep your garden growing whilst maintaining your wellbeing and networking with like minded people.
- Finally, explore our National Gardening week blog to learn more about the benefits of green spaces and gardens!