A daily dose of gardening increases your mental wellbeing as well Running or cycling revealed a groundbreaking study by the Royal Horticultural Society (RHS).
In celebration of National Gardening Week (Monday April 26 – May 2), the world’s leading gardening charity surveyed more than 6,000 Britons to find out how useful this horticultural pastime really is – and the results are no surprise.
The RHS, published in Cities magazine, found that those who gardened two to three times a week had 4.1 percent higher levels of comfort and 2.4 percent lower stress than those who didn’t garden at all worked. Whether you have an urban balcony or large lawns, gardening offers numerous opportunities for physical and mental improvement.
In more evidence that gardening offers significant human health benefits, the RHS also found that those who gardened regularly also felt less depressed (13 percent), had more energy (12 percent), and felt overall felt less stressed (16 percent).
“This is the first time the ‘dose response’ has been tested on gardening, and the evidence largely suggests that the more gardening you do, the greater the health benefits,” says Dr. Lauriane Chalmin-Pui, RHS Wellbeing Fellow and lead author.
“In fact, daily gardening has just as positive an impact on well-being as regular, vigorous exercise such as cycling or running. In the garden, our brain is pleasantly distracted by the nature around us. This shifts our focus away from ourselves and our stress, thereby restoring our minds and reducing negative feelings. ‘
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The co-author Dr. Ross Cameron of the University of Sheffield added, “This study provides further empirical data to demonstrate the value of gardening and gardens in mental restoration and the promotion of mental calming.
“We also found that a larger proportion of the plants in the garden are associated with better well-being, which suggests that just looking at ‘green’ gardens can be helpful.”
Elsewhere, the RHS announced it would encourage the nation to celebrate the power of gardens with a daily dose of “Vitamin G”. With research showing the noticeable difference plants and gardens can make to our mental and physical health, the charity wants Britons to spend a few minutes each day connecting with nature.
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15 gardening gloves that are durable and comfortable
Best breathable gloves – gardening gloves
Burgon and ball tweed gardening gloves, medium, gray
£ 17.50
This classic gray pair of gloves has an adjustable strap to keep your hands secure while you garden. They also have ultra-soft felt surfaces and a breathable mesh fabric to keep you cool when it’s warm.
Everyday gloves – gardening gloves
Everyday gardening gloves
With non-slip points for a secure hold and a four-way stretch fit, these everyday gardening gloves protect hands from cuts and the sun (made with certified 50+ UPF for maximum sun protection).
Best breathable gloves – gardening gloves
Leather gardening gloves for women
£ 13.80
These green gloves cost a little over £ 12 and have a breathable 3D mesh back to keep your hands cool and comfortable. Ideal for the summer months.
CONTINUE READING: 20 best garden gifts under £ 35
Multipurpose gloves – gardening gloves
Glove gloves
£ 20.00
These soft gray suede gloves are great for chores around the house and garden. They are sold in one size and are designed to protect your hands no matter what job you do.
Microfiber gloves – gardening gloves
Microfiber gardening glove – medium
Weeding, pruning and planting are effortless with these green microfiber and polyester gardening gloves. Not only are they easy to clean, but they also have an adjustable Velcro fastener.
Best stylish gardening gloves – gardening gloves
Striped tulip pot gloves
£ 39.95 each
These 100 percent cotton gardening gloves with Orla Kiely’s famous print are fully lined with elastic wrists. It’s great if you’re looking for a stylish option.
Best waterproof gloves – gardening gloves
Showa water repellent gardening gloves 306
Gardening on a Rainy Day? Add these affordable water-repellent gloves to the top of your wish list. They are completely coated with latex and offer a strong hold in both wet and dry conditions.
Large gardening gloves – gardening gloves
Garden gloves, green, large
£ 11.99
These large gardening gloves are used and recommended by the Royal Botanic Gardens at Kew. They have leather palms and a durable spandex back that adds a little stretch. Perfect for practical tasks in the garden.
Affordable gardening gloves – gardening gloves
Briers Rigger Gloves – Twin Pack
Protect your hands from scratches and cuts in the garden with these large gloves. Made from leather, cotton, and polyester, they’re great for heavy-duty tasks.
Best for comfort – gardening gloves
Everyday gardening gloves
In a soft shade of beige, these everyday gardening gloves have been made from a soft, stretchy fabric for complete comfort. In addition, the palms and fingers are covered with silicone dots to give you a secure grip.
Denim gloves – gardening gloves
Denim garden glove with glove cuff
These stylish and practical denim gardening gloves protect against sharp thorns, needles, briar and insect bites.
Thorn proof – gardening gloves
Leather gardening gloves Thorn Proof Garden work gloves
These leather gardening gloves protect hands from thorns and feature an adjustable rip-tape strap for comfort and a more generous fit. We love the extra blue.
Best for removing tough weeds – gardening gloves
RHS Burgon and Ball Flora & Fauna Gloves
Part of the RHS Flora & Fauna collection, these vibrant bird-printed gloves are great for removing tough weeds. They are made from a soft, durable fabric to help keep your garden in shape.
Professional gardening gloves – gardening gloves
Professional gardening gloves
These professional gardening gloves are built to last with comfort, durability and protection. They also have extra palm and finger protection to keep you safe while pruning plants.
Best gloves for hard work – gardening gloves
Irwin Heavy Duty construction site gloves L.
£ 21.70
Are you looking for a professional pair of heavy-duty gardening gloves? Then this couple is just for you. Designed for harsh applications and harsh materials, these gloves can be rest assured that they will protect your hands outdoors.
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