As we enter a new year, many of us are looking for ways to improve our wellbeing and find moments of peace and tranquillity in our busy lives. One often overlooked but incredibly rewarding way to achieve this is through spending time in the garden. Whether you have a sprawling plot, a small balcony or are involved with a local Community Garden, there are countless opportunities to practice mindfulness and wellbeing in the garden.
Burn Calories Through Gardening
One of the great benefits of having a garden is the opportunity to keep fit and exercise without having to step foot in a gym. Gardening is a fantastic way to get moving and burn calories while also enjoying the fresh air and sunshine. From digging and planting to weeding and pruning, there are endless physical tasks that can be done in the garden that will not only give you a workout but also leave you with a sense of accomplishment.
New Years Resolution: Connect with your Garden
As the new year begins, it’s the perfect time to make resolutions for your garden. Take some time to plan and envision what you want your garden to look like in the year/s ahead. Consider what plants you want to grow, any new features you want to add, and any changes you want to make to improve the overall design. By setting goals for your garden, you’ll have something to work towards and a sense of purpose when you step outside.
One of the most powerful aspects of spending time in the garden is the connection it provides with nature. There is something incredibly grounding and peaceful about getting your hands in the earth and working with the plants and soil. It’s a reminder of our place in the natural world and has been proven to alleviate stress and anxiety, improve mood, and increase overall well-being. Just last week, a friendly Robin landed on my boot while I was mulching an area of the garden, reminding me of the beauty and wonder that can be found in even the smallest of moments. By dedicating time to the garden, we prioritise self-care and create space for relaxation and rejuvenation.
How Your Garden is an Opportunity for Self Care
Even in the winter months, there are still plenty of tasks to be done in the garden, if you need inspiration for winter garden design, read our last blog here. One important activity to consider is winter mulching. This process helps to suppress weeds, retain moisture, and protect plants from harsh weather conditions. By taking the time to mulch your garden, you are not only caring for your plants but also creating a sense of order and renewal in your outdoor space.
Another way to connect with nature in your garden is by hanging bird feeders. Not only will this provide food for our feathered friends during the colder months, but it also provides a wonderful opportunity to observe and appreciate the wildlife that visits your garden. Watching birds’ flit around and feed can be incredibly calming and can help to foster a sense of connection with the natural world.
Finally, don’t underestimate the power of simply sitting in your garden and taking it all in. Whether it’s a warm summer day or a chilly winter morning, find a cozy spot, wrap up in a blanket, and sit with a cup of coffee or tea. Observe the changing light, listen to the sounds of nature, and allow yourself to relax and reset. Taking this time for yourself in the garden can be incredibly rejuvenating and can help to improve your overall wellbeing.
So, as we embark on a new year, make a commitment to make the most of your garden, no matter the size or location. Whether it’s through physical activity, planning and goal-setting, connecting with nature, or simply taking time to relax and observe, your garden has the potential to be a sanctuary for mindfulness and wellbeing. Embrace the opportunity to create a new year, new garden, and reap the benefits that come with it, for garden inspiration, view our selected works.
Contact us now 07834 233 343, we can assist you with your garden design, jenny@noscoegardendesign.com