Gardening can be beneficial for mental health. There is evidence to suggest that spending time in nature, including gardening, can help reduce stress, anxiety, and depression, and improve mood, cognitive function, and overall well-being. The act of gardening itself can also be meditative, providing a sense of calm and tranquility. Additionally, growing your own food and flowers can be a source of pride and satisfaction, and connecting with the natural world can provide a sense of grounding and connection to something larger than oneself.
Various studies have found correlations between gardening – indoor or outdoor – and positive effects on mental health. Related to outdoor gardening, the article, “The Mental and Physical Health Outcomes of Green Exercise” by Jules Pretty, Jo Peacock, Martin Sellens, and Murray Griffin found that green exercise, including gardening, can improve mental health by reducing anxiety, depression, and feelings of stress, and by improving self-esteem and mood. Likewise, the findings of the study,
How Gardening in Detroit Influences Physical and Mental Health by Beavers et al., indicated that gardening may improve physical and mental health.
The study “The psychological benefits of indoor plants: A critical review of the experimental literature” by Jeannine Kunz, Jutta Stürmer, and Thomas D. Reichreviewed the existing literature on the psychological benefits of indoor plants and found that they can improve mood, reduce stress and anxiety, and enhance cognitive performance. Similarly, “Effects of Indoor Plants on Human Functions: A Systematic Review with Meta-Analyses” by Ke-Tsung Han, Li-Wen Ruan, and Li-Shih Liao found that indoor plants can improve indoor air quality, which in turn can have a positive impact on human well-being and health.
It’s worth mentioning that while indoor gardening can have many positive effects on mental health, it may not be the right activity for everyone. If you have any concerns about your mental health, it’s important to speak with a doctor or mental health professional.