Gardening for a happier life

 The last two years were like a roller coaster of emotions, an amalgam of fear, resignation, and – finally – hope. That’s because covid landed in our lives like a   hurricane. This stage in human history caught the majority of us unprepared. We   needed time to evaluate the situation. We needed time to value the benefits.

And the winner in the benefits category is, undoubtedly, the human ability to reconnect with Mother Nature. During lockdowns, gardening turned out to be a great way to maintain mental health in elderly adults, who are more prone to loneliness and depression. But taking care of plants or simply having them around is a great way to unwind for anyone, regardless of age. Spending time outdoors is linked to reduced stress, improved mood, and increased life satisfaction.

THE VOICE OF THE SCIENCE

A study published in 2019 in Frontiers in Psychology shows that only 20 minutes of interaction with nature will significantly reduce cortisol levels – our body’s stress hormone. By the way, that’s the guy who controls our mood and fear. A high cortisol level can lead to a series of health issues, like anxiety, depression, weight gain, or sleeping problems.

STEP 1: LEAVE THE HOUSE

The good news is there is no need to be in the heart of nature. Of course, it can be a walk in the forest, but also reading a good book in a hammock, enjoying a good coffee in the park, planting marigolds on your balcony – all these activities are winners when conquering inner peace. The idea is to have green elements around you and soak in the entire experience, as nature also helps improve mindfulness.

STEP 2: GOODBYE, TECHNOLOGY!

The golden rule is to leave technology behind when stepping outside your home or office. No cellphone, social media, or Internet connection is allowed. It’s a moment of (literally!) getting a breath of air and accessing yourself.

STEP 3: LEARN TO BE

Maybe you have a stressful job, noisy neighbors, or perhaps kids full of energy? The truth is a busy lifestyle and the urge to access technology anytime and everywhere can leave us with no time to hear our thoughts. 
Just enjoy being with your best friend ever, the only person that never leaves your side. YOURSELF.

STEP 4: TRY GARDENING

Seriously, it’s not rocket science. With Perfektua grow bags, gardening becomes easy for anyone. Choose the right size depending on what you want to grow; add some good quality soil, make room for the plant and enjoy the green corner even on the tiniest balcony.