I, for one have never been a gardener – I don’t like bugs, worms, or dirt, however, many of my friends and family LOVE to garden! That said, I enjoy the bounty of fresh vegetables my gardening friends share with me, a little selfish probably? Those who garden say it is like being on a deserted island, no one bothers you, it is calm, you enjoy the “fruits” of your labor and have time to just relax.  

These are all great benefits for sure, but in an interesting study published in the Lancet, researchers found that these aren’t the only benefits! The purpose of the study was to determine if nature-based community interventions could improve diet, physical activity and socialization. Guess what? Gardening had MANY other benefits including: 

• Participants of the study enjoyed healthier weight, exercised more, and ate more fibrous fruits and vegetables, all of which reduce the risk for cancer and improve heart health! 
• Those who participated in the study also had less stress and anxiety which can lower the risk for various illnesses.
• Community gardening can also build social connections within communities and offer a space for people to share their growing techniques, recipes, and culture, which help establish relationships and a sense of community. 

At the end of the study, the findings were pretty impressive. People who garden experience many health benefits and within 6 months, the new gardeners were averaging two to three visits to the community garden a week. They also ate an average of 1.4 g more fiber per day, had upped their physical activity by around 42 minutes per week, and enjoyed a calmer life.  

Isn’t it time to take a look at your plans for spring? Do you have an area in your courtyard or on your grounds to cultivate a community garden? Hold an ad hoc resident council meeting, ask the residents who would like to engage in a gardening activity. Recruit your family members, maybe someone has carpentry skills and can assist in building raised gardens for ease of access. Don’t forget the multi-generational bonding that can happen in a community garden! Get your activities department involved in building a scarecrow, think of the fun your residents and staff could have while enjoying a healthier lifestyle! Be creative, stay well and stay informed!