The present coronavirus epidemic affects nearly everyone in varying degrees and ways. But one thing is sure: worry and dread have grown across the board. Fortunately, there is a tried-and-true therapy, and it’s right across your doorstep.
Time spent outdoors brings with it a ton of benefits that can help alleviate the pent-up stress this pandemic has caused. Going a significant distance away isn’t an option for most people, which is why dolling up what’s nearest to you becomes the most practical way. Yes, we’re talking about your landscaping!
So how exactly does landscaping help our mental health? Read on to find out.
1. Exposure to Bacteria (The Good Kind!)
Did you know your garden soil contains one of the most accessible, natural anti-depressants? Mycobacterium vaccae is the probable culprit, and it has been discovered to mimic the action on neurons that anti-depressant medications like Prozac give. The bacteria is present in soil and may boost serotonin synthesis, which relaxes and makes you happy. Cancer patients were studied, and they reported a higher quality of life and less stress.
Depression, anxiety, obsessive-compulsive disorder, and bipolar illness have all been related to a lack of serotonin. The bacteria appears to be a natural antidepressant in soil and has no harmful effects on human health. These antidepressant microorganisms in soil might be as simple to use as digging in the dirt.
2. Encourages You To Spend More Time Outside (Vitamin D!)
Spending time outside allows you to experience the sun’s rays (remember to apply sunscreen in the summer heat), which has a variety of health advantages. This is because the sun provides our bodies with Vitamin D, which is highly beneficial to us. Take a page from your pet’s book the next time you see them basking in the sun — cats and dogs fully grasp how good they feel when their bodies are flooded with Vitamin D!
Despite its name, Vitamin D is a hormone produced by the body. As soon as the sunlight hits our skin, our bodies produce Vitamin D as a chemical reaction, and the advantages of this contact are numerous.
3. Good Landscaping Naturally Reduces Stress Hormones
According to research, simply gazing at plants or trees, even via a window, can reduce levels of the stress hormone cortisol. A study of Japanese employees discovered that a stroll in the forest reduced their average pulse by 4% and blood pressure by more than 2%! Workers who have a window that lets in natural light or who have indoor plants report greater levels of job satisfaction.
Not only that, but being outside in nature has been shown to lower inflammation, which translates into a lesser possibility of autoimmune diseases, irritable bowel syndrome, and even cancer! While research into cancer prevention is still in its early stages, studies show that spending time outside can boost the synthesis of anti-cancer proteins.
A friendly environment improves your mental health by reducing the sometimes chaotic impacts of city living. You’ll still have all of the contemporary comforts at your disposal, but not at the expense of your health.
Nothing beats fear and anxiety like a beautiful view right on your doorstep! Partner with DSLD Land Management today to achieve your landscaping dreams! We are a Birmingham landscape construction company that goes above and beyond to improve your space. Call us today!