Gardening for well-being

As well as helping wildlife , gardening can be good for you too.

Research shows that gardening helps tackle obesity, protects against cancer and heart disease, strengthens bones and fights stress. Calorie crunchers will be keen to know that thirty minutes' digging can burn 250 calories, while even weeding takes 105 calories. As a bonus, all that bending, stretching and carrying tones up your muscles as well as any workout in the gym (and for free!).

A recent American study found that women over 50 who garden at least once a week have a higher bone density than women who do almost any other form of exercise. Getting out in the sun also helps the body to produce vitamin D, which in turn allows us to absorb more calcium - vital for bone health. Studies have also shown that gardening helps people relax and can even help people with mental health problems.

Our Garden for Wildlife page may help you to get started.

The related links can help you find out more about the health benefits of gardening.