How gardening may help you with depression or the loss of a loved one.
Let me share my thoughts and experience with you, as I have been through some really tough times myself. I am strong believer that being outdoors with Mother Nature gardening really does help with depression and mental wellbeing. So, in this blog I will try to share my ideas and benefits of a gardening journey to encourage you to have a go. Please, I really understand as it may not feel easy for you but trust me, I have been there at the crossroads wondering how I can make myself relax, not feeling anxious and having a sense of purpose.
Many people may experience depression or the loss of losing a loved one, but these symptoms may come all at once. Yes, they are hard to deal with and getting people to understand these issues may also be difficult.
For many years I have turned to my garden for inspiration and solace in helping me to come to terms with situations to do with loss and depression, but also to cope with an everyday busy life. Being at one with Mother Nature and Mother Earth. Only she knows my deepest secrets, as I am never alone in the garden surround by such peace, simplicity, colour, texture, fauna and flora. The wildlife is incredible and, most importantly no judgement in the garden.
When I am very low, I find myself taking a walk around a garden to get some fresh air and see what has appeared. I also take pictures and write a few notes down for inspiration for the intention of referring to for new projects. This is a good idea because you can see for yourself when you are looking back to see what gave you inspiration and how your mood was at the time. Yes, it’s hard making that effort but once you’re outside you will begin to feel calmer.
Being surrounded by the sights and sounds, scent, and colour can also bring a calming effect. I find myself drawing pictures, studying the movements of the plants and keeping notes of what colour combinations I find calming.
I take great pleasure in growing things from seed and cuttings. I think is good way of feeling connected with everyday life and giving form of routine and care. As you will be the carer of the plants. I find myself talking to them, in a way of egging them on! I hope! Bless.
Now if I don’t feel energetic and it may be a dull day I sit back with a cuppa and catch up with some gardening podcasts and few colourful gardening books or magazines. This usually helps me to take my mind of troubles and I find myself exploring the internet to expand my knowledge of the love of gardening.
I’ve always got catalogues to go through, because it’s good to have them to hand to plan for those intended gardening projects. In fact, doing a project is a good way of maybe bringing certain plants into the garden that may bring comforting memories and plant names association. With the memory of your loved one’s favourite colour schemes. Plus, a quiet place for reflection.
If you’re not interested in the outdoor stuff then bring house plants into your home, as this is great way of cheering an area up and bringing interest. Whether it may be greenery or beautiful orchids. It’s added an interest for you and will have a calming effect around the house. They also improve air quality. I have known clients to give their plants pets names and spend time talking to them, whilst attending to them cleaning their leaves and watering.
Also, there are some wonderful gardening clubs that you could join, and you’ll be surprised, as this a great way of making new friends and being able to go on outings or organised trips to some beautiful gardens. Plus being part of group, having company and sharing gardening tips over cuppa is good for your soul. You’ll never feel alone because there are many members in these gardening groups that join for these reasons and want to keep their gardens thriving.
Go here to find a list of RHS GARDENING CLUBS