Sally Rummery
Research into the health benefits of gardening shows significant improvements in mood and a dramatic decrease in the risk of dementia in later life.
With Australia’s coronavirus lockdown worrying health experts with fears that restrictions will have a long-term profound impact on the mental health of Australians, now is the time to get out in the garden.
A study by the Australian National University shows uncertainty surrounding the time-frame of easing of restrictions has led to almost half of all Australians feeling more stressed because of the pandemic and nearly as many suffering from loneliness and isolation.
As people continue to work from home, staying fit and active can become an overwhelming task. Maintaining your garden is a fantastic way to easily increase your heart rate and catch some sun. Adequate levels of vitamin D increases calcium levels, promoting a healthier immune system.
While physical activity is cited as important in improving mental health, so to does simply being in nature. Studies show that being outdoors for 30 minutes a day considerably lowers levels of the stress hormone, cortisol, in the body leading to an improvement in mood.
Since Australia’s nationwide shutdown at the beginning of the year, nursery profits have soared with nursery production revenue projected to grow by 3.6% this year, in comparison to an average industry growth of -1.0% between 2015-2020.
With drought severely impacting significant areas of Australia in the past three years pressure has been put on production of both outdoor and indoor nursery products. The sudden change in climate weather patterns, with the breaking of the drought in many areas and the dramatic increase in home renovations has seen a marked influx in demand for products and is encouraging for small, local nursery businesses.
Just remember that while your own health is improved by immersing yourself in the outdoors, the well-being of your local business owners is improved by your ongoing support.