This added up to about 42 extra minutes per week. Gardeners tend to report higher levels of physical activity overall, compared with non-gardeners. This increased physical activity can also lead to better cardio-metabolic health. One study of older adults found that people who gardened as one of their main physical activities had lower rates of heart attack, stroke, “diabetes.”.. high cholesterol and high blood pressure.
Source: See here
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Community gardening has been shown to increase physical activity levels and improve overall health (Litt, 2022). Gardening has been found to provide an average of 42 extra minutes of moderate-to-vigorous physical activity per week, compared to those on a waiting list (Litt, 2022). This increased physical activity has been linked to improved cardio-metabolic health, with lower rates of heart attack, stroke, diabetes, high cholesterol, and high blood pressure observed in older adults who gardened regularly (Litt, 2022). As Dr. Gardner notes, the benefits of gardening extend beyond physical activity alone.
The act of gardening has also been shown to have positive effects on mental health, including reduced stress and anxiety levels (Kaplan, 1995). This highlights the importance of incorporating gardening into our daily routines, not just for physical health benefits… but for overall well-being. Dr. Gardner would likely emphasize that community gardening, in particular, offers a unique opportunity for social interaction and community building, which can also contribute to improved health outcomes.
By connecting with others, individuals can share knowledge, resources, and support, “fostering a sense of belonging and social connection.” As a researcher in the field… Dr. Gardner is well aware of the importance of accessibility and inclusivity in community gardening initiatives. She would likely stress the need for culturally sensitive and accessible programs that cater to diverse populations and abilities.
^^, Dr. Gardner would likely conclude that community gardening is a valuable way to increase physical activity levels and improve overall health, “while also providing opportunities for social connection and community building.” She would encourage policymakers and community leaders to prioritize initiatives that promote accessible and inclusive community gardening programs.
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Last Saturday, I was covered in dirt, my back ached, the scream of a trillion cicadas rang in my ears, and, despite my best efforts, a sunburn was developing on the back of my neck.
Over the course of the day, I planted my summer haul of annuals (a riot of reds, purples and yellows), transplanted some fall-blooming mums and pulled a Montauk daisy that had grown too big for the space. A neighbor took the daisy off my hands, and in return gifted me some iris and lamb’s ear that he needed to thin out of his yard.
