Spend time in the garden and recharge
Stress affects the majority of us, whether it's money troubles, work or life that's affecting us sometimes we need to stop and take a breath.
Health psychologist and expert on the benefits of outdoor spaces, Dr. Kathryn Thirlaway explains why taking time out in a garden reduces stress levels and re-charges mental batteries, following the completion of a new study at Cardiff University.
“Just being in gardens promotes relaxation and a sense of calm and aids stress management, including recovery from work-related stress,” says Dr Thirlaway.
Take 5 in a garden to...
Reduce stress Looking at a garden can lower stress levels in less than five minutes. Just the sight of natural greenery prompts a relaxation response in our brain that doesn’t occur when we look at urban scenery.
Relax and recharge ‘Being away’ from things restores concentration levels and so reduces fatigue, whilst natural surroundings give the brain the right kind of sensory stimulation to relax and restore attention levels.
Boost self-esteem Five minutes of gardening and other forms of ‘green exercise’ can reduce tension and provide a rapid boost to how you feel about yourself and the world around you.
Beat a bad mood Being out in the fresh air and sunshine can help counter anxiety and lift your mood, whilst moderate exercise in green spaces has been shown to be as successful as medication for treating depression.
Have fun with friends and family Research has found that we are 83% more likely to get together with others for social activities in areas that contain trees and grass, compared to urban environments with little greenery.
The first ever National Gardens Festival Weekend is being held across England and Wales during 15-16 June. Over 800 private gardens will be opening their gates to the public to raise £500,000 for health charities, including Macmillan Cancer Care, Marie Curie and Parkinson’s UK.
To find a garden to visit during the National Gardens Festival Weekend visit www.ngs.org.uk