PREVIEW

Psychologist explains the calming effects of gardening. Gardening can be good for your health in a number of ways, including reducing stress levels. Dr Gurpreet Kaur, a clinical psychologist, explains why many people find gardening so calming. ”Being surrounded by greenery and engaging in gardening aligns with our evolutionary connection to natural environments, fostering a sense of well-being.” "Exposure to greenery, soil, and plants can trigger positive emotional responses and contribute to a sense of tranquillity. It can also help with mindfulness as gardening requires a focus on the present moment whilst incorporating natural elements into human environments.” She notes that gardening can help regulate levels of the stress hormone cortisol. ”Gardening can help with stress reduction as ecotherapy, the interaction with nature, has been linked to the regulation of cortisol, the stress hormone.” "Spending time in a garden environment may help lower cortisol levels, promoting a sense of calmness and reducing stress.” "It is often used for therapeutic benefits for the treatment of various mental health conditions due to its ability to reduce symptoms of anxiety and depression. This may be related to the tactile element which engages multiple senses, including touch, sight, and smell.” The expert adds that simply touching plants and soil can have a "soothing" effect and provide "a sensory-rich experience that contributes to relaxation”. THIS VIDEO MUST NOT BE EDITED FOR LENGTH TO COMBINE WITH OTHER CONTENT