As the temperatures begin to rise and nature comes into bloom, there’s no better way to welcome in the warmer weather than spending time outdoors. Cultivating a garden is a great activity to keep busy during the spring and summer months – as it’s purposeful, fun and even provides an array of health benefits. At Glen Oaks Community we care about our residents and their well-being, which is why we encourage gardening with our raised gardens, garden plots and indoor greenhouse space.
While gardening might not seem like the most effective workout compared to swimming or walking, which Glen Oaks Community also provides, it is a hearty physical activity that can serve as great daily exercise and has even been proven to help slow down the aging process. Additionally, gardening is a moderately intense exercise and can count towards the expert recommended 30 minutes of daily exercise. The benefits provided by quick and easy daily exercise like gardening are endless, and it can lead to greater overall health.
Exposure to nature and outdoors through gardens and gardening activities can enhance psychological well-being through emotional regulation and relief from stress. Fresh air and sunshine can do wonders for your mood and your health. The sun’s rays not only cause your body to produce vitamin D, which can help reduce the risk of heart disease, but also boost the serotonin levels in your brain.
At TimberCrest at Glen Oaks, we offer three gardening areas for our residents. We offer raised gardens off our community room patio, garden plots which can be any size the resident enjoys and still on our campus, or an indoor option complete with ceiling windows to bring the warm sunshine into the gardens. I cannot think of anything better than enjoying a meal with fresh produce from our very own garden. Last year, we even grew pumpkins for the fall season. Whether it’s food for our table, or flowers for the beauty, there is nothing better than your own garden!
A garden in full bloom can be pleasing to the eyes and nose. But did you also know that tending to that beautiful garden could have a positive impact on your health? In honor of National Garden Month in April, why not stop to smell the roses—and plant a few of your own? Gardening can improve your immune system, relieve stress and anxiety, reduce the risk of dementia, is good exercise, and fresh air does wonders for your mood and health. If you are looking for an excuse to spend more time outdoors this spring, consider a hobby like gardening that will benefit your physical, mental and emotional health.
Glen Oaks Community values living life your way, and gardening is one more way our Residents continue to grow and enjoy their loved ones and health. Call us today to set up a private visit of our one of a kind community located in beautiful Clear Lake, Iowa. Call us at 641-355-1203 or fill out our request form at www.glenoakscommunity.org.