New research suggests that many people may indeed reap mental health benefits from working with plants — even if they’ve never gardened before.
Planting Seeds for a Happier Mind
Just like tending to a garden can help plants grow, working with plants can nurture your mental health. A recent study shows that even if you’re new to gardening, you can still experience the positive effects on your mind. It’s like planting little seeds of happiness in your brain! Scientific evidence suggests that engaging with nature and green spaces can reduce stress and anxiety, boost mood and self-esteem, and increase overall well-being. It’s as if nature has the power to provide soothing medicine for the soul. So why not grab a shovel and get your hands dirty? Digging around in the soil, planting flowers or vegetables, and watching them grow can bring you joy and tranquility. Plus, sweating it out in the garden can give you a good workout too! This research sheds light on the therapeutic benefits of gardening and encourages everyone to explore the connection between plants and mental health.

Amir is a Pakistani-Canadian neuroengineer in Toronto, developing brain-computer interfaces to enhance learning. As a volunteer author, he shares insights on how technology can amplify cognitive abilities, drawing from his diverse South Asian-Canadian perspective.