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Climate change and a stressful world
Recordings made over the past thirty years ascertain the horrifying rate at which our Earth is warming. According to natural effects like solar cycles and volcano activity, the Earth should now be in a cool-down-period, not in a heating-up phase – this current climate change is unique, however, in that it is not a natural occurance (Allianz Science).
In addition, it is becoming a common phenomena for the modern (particularly the urban-based) human to be continually faced with multiple stress factors. These stresses include the constant bombardment and confusions of information about environmental issues, economic concerns, health worries and community strife.
Cityplot believes that we can no longer afford to stick our individual heads in the sand, but rather must pull together and take responsible, prompt action.
The importance of plants
Effective considerations for gardening range from ground-level erosion reduction, through to the benefits of rooftop gardens in the heating and cooling costs of an entire building (Heat Island Group Scientists). Studies performed by the researchers from the Agricultural University of Norway indicated that plant life filters pollutants and reduces carbon-dioxide build-up. Workplace investigations showed that the more plants workers could see from their desks, the less self-reported sick leave there was. The surrounding plant life was also able to lower fatigue, prevent dry throats, headaches, coughs and dry skin amongst the office workers.
Indoor plants remove airborne toxins that threaten human health (including formaldehyde, toluene, and benzene) reduce airborne dust, mould spores and microbes and assist in keeping humidity at comfortable levels. The presence of plants is essential to our health and well being, increasing our relaxation levels and attention spans. Simply put, being around strong, healthy plants – and particularly those that you play a part in the care of – just make you feel good.
Benefits of growing your own food
In growing some of your own produce, you can benefit from the reduction of hidden costs of store-bought food, namely that of transportation, processing, packaging, advertising (this is estimated at being around six-tenths of the shelf price). For families on limited incomes, fresh fruits and nutrient-rich vegetables from a community garden may be a luxury which otherwise can’t be afforded.
Regardless of their size, gardens provide a safe place for urban inhabitants to experience the nature we currently take so much for granted, discover the cycles of life and enhance and protect the environment. The merits of gardening know no barrier of age, status, race, gender or mental/physical disorder. Gardening helps us develop an understanding of the environment, love and respect for the earth – all whilst individual eating habits are becoming healthier and the air around each one of us cleaner. It is almost impossible not to become enthusiastic about a thriving garden!
Children are much more likely to be eager to consume the fresh fruit and vegetables they have helped nurture and grow, providing them with motivation to try these healthy foods and improve their nutritional attitudes and behaviours. What’s more, they can have the pleasure of eating their wares on the spot. Gardening encourages physical movement and gives good reason to be away from the computer or TV screen. The most forward thinking schooling systems include direct exposure to and involvement in nature’s cycles. Better still if these practices can be instilled and supported in the home.
Health benefits of gardening
Gardening is an elementary pleasure and a therapeutic tool. In its unpretentiousness, it can fulfil the staggering task of engaging all of our five senses. It is an all-encompassing activity, which involves us physically, mentally and spiritually.
The garden provides a peaceful spot to relax and reflect. It slows us down and compels patience, setting us back into the slow cycles of nature. It consciously and deliberately restores the meaning and symbolic intent of what might otherwise be considered ordinary tasks: digging, planting, watering, tending, maintaining and cultivating.
Gardening contributes to a higher quality of life, which ultimately benefits society. It is no secret that accessibility to nature is a vitally important factor in life satisfaction. Through the understated act of gardening, each and every one of us can play a part in developing individuals and their sense of accomplishment, strengthening families and building the communities around us.
Gardening is the all-round healing measure we need.
