The national horticultural charity, Thrive, urges people who have run into mental difficulties to try a 15-minute dose of gardening every day to help reduce stress, anxiety, and depression.
From promoting human connections to building strength, the health benefits of gardening are wide-ranging, both physically and psychologically. Thrive recognizes the power of horticulture and wants to encourage the British to garden for their own good this spring – and beat the blues together.
To get people outside, the charity is offering a free four-week calendar of simple daily activities so that Brits can connect, learn, stay active, give and become aware of the natural world around them. All you have to do is download the free guide, put on your gardening gloves and plant them.
DOWNLOAD CALENDAR
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“Research has shown that many people’s mental health has suffered during the pandemic,” said Kathryn Rossiter, CEO of Thrive. “Gardening and being outdoors can make a huge difference in reducing stress, anxiety, and depression.
“There are so many people who have struggled over the past few months of lockdown and Thrive wants to take a step back in their crotch by showing them how gardening and the outdoors can help through simple and accessible activities.”
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Mark Lane, moderator of Gardeners’ World, welcomed the initiative, adding, “Regular gardening and outdoor activities have so many health benefits, and spring is a wonderful time to experience them.
“After a tough winter, I’m delighted that Thrive is encouraging people, regardless of their abilities, to try simple activities that can improve their wellbeing.”
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32 of the best garden furniture sets
Trabella Roma dining set
This affordable set looks sleek and modern. Thanks to the polypropylene material, it can be wiped off easily – and the chairs are stackable.
Conversation set made of wood
We look forward to sunny days with the family outside. This FSC-certified wooden garden furniture set is a nice addition to your room. There’s even a table for your glass of Pimms.
Bambrick Garden Dining Set
This square dining set would look nice tucked away in a corner or would be a good option if your patio area is on the small side.
Misali 6 Seater Garden Dining Set
Rule of gathering six people?
Rochester Hardwood Gray Sofa Set
How chic is that International travel isn’t in sight for now, but sitting on that glamorous sofa in your back yard might be the next best thing.
Arc En Ciel steel bistro set
A classic little bistro set, perfect for enjoying an al fresco breakfast in the sun on your balcony.
Lyra Garden hanging chair
We can just see ourselves curled up in that chair and read a book.
Yuri garden bench
Made has a range of bright and beautiful patio furniture this season – we love the contrasting greens and pinks on this modern bench.
Topa Garden Corner Lounge Unit
£ 1,299.00
Your patio is about to undergo a serious upgrade. There is plenty of space here for the whole family – and plenty of space for all drinks.
Sound Garden dining set
Rattan furniture looks great, but the real deal isn’t great for the outdoors. This poly rattan option is a great alternative so you don’t have to compromise on the look you want.
4-piece dining set for outdoors
This set wouldn’t look out of place in your living room. So if you like indoor and outdoor living, this is a good choice.
Kennet Reclining Dining Set
In addition to four (reclining) chairs and a table, this set also has a parasol, which makes it excellent value for money.
Garden picnic table
On a budget? You don’t have to save on space. Here is a classic picnic table with plenty of space for a barbecue on Saturday.
Set of 2 Lois Garden armchairs
Cheer up dreary outdoor areas with these cheerful chairs. There is a lot of matching furniture (in a choice of colors) in this range so don’t hesitate to combine them.
Capri garden sofa
This sofa is the perfect combination of rustic charm and modern design.
Extrusion rod dining set
£ 530.00
Create a real outdoor bar feeling in your garden with this high dining set. Now all you need is an outdoor drinks cart and you’re done.
Foldable metal bistro set
£ 75.00
Here’s another cute bistro set – we love the light green shade.
5-piece garden conversation set
Time to sunbathe?
Faux rattan bistro set
Another great one for those who enjoy the rattan look.
Outdoor indoor sectional corner sofa set
This sofa set can be used both indoors and outdoors so we think it is a great choice to decorate your conservatory.
Vallarta indoor / outdoor stool
Do you need something to brighten up your dreary patio? Anthropologie is known for its beautiful decorative designs and this gorgeous indoor / outdoor stool is no exception.
Bamboo garden table Sett
$ 179.00
Here is another set of patio furniture that you can use to recreate the feeling of being in a bar on a beach far away. Be quick if you are interested, however, there is only one available.
Camley placemat
£ 1,500.00
Garden Trading always has such sophisticated pieces of furniture – we especially love this spacious anthracite gray bench for six people. There is also a two-seater version.
Valencia Garden Suite
£ 1,499.00
Do you remember guests? Soon we will all be stacked around the table for summer barbecues. This huge, cozy set ensures there is enough space for everyone to have a big party for the first time after being locked.
Willow hanging chair
£ 549.00
Another comfy hanging chair – this one is very unconventional.
Ipanema 2 coffee tables
A splash of yellow makes any room a little more welcoming. This is also a great price for two outdoor tables.
Trough 2-seater bistro set
This bistro set has a trough on the end to keep your drinks cold while you relax. Very convenient.
Pallet sofa
US $ 150.00
Using pallets as furniture is an inexpensive and environmentally friendly way to ensure that there is enough seating in your yard. It looks noticeable too.
2-person macrame hammock
US $ 96.00
We’re pretty sure we can find our zen in this hammock – even during a global pandemic.
Karina Rattan Lounge Chair
£ 230.00
You will need a deck chair for long evenings outdoors. Paired with a bright, textured pillow, this natural rattan number would look great when sitting on your patio or patio.
Hampstead Bank
Forget boring garden benches – this outdoor rattan sofa gives your garden seating area a nifty upgrade.
Hanging bell tent
At just under 1000 euros, this item is a bit of a luxury purchase – but there is no denying that this is the dream setup for long sunny days at home.
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