How does contact with plants affect health? Discover the benefits of horticulture

The spring sunshine encourages us to work in the garden. And while we're on the subject of plants, it's worth taking a closer look at horticulture. What exactly is it? It is one form of unconventional therapy that uses plants to improve our physical and mental condition.

It has long been known that contact with nature has a salutary effect on our bodies. Perhaps not everyone is aware that both tending plants in the garden and lying lazily on a blanket surrounded by greenery is not only a pleasure, but also a way to improve health. This simple contact with nature makes us feel better, both physically and mentally. And that really does make a difference!

Contact with plants and your health

We all have an innate need to come into contact with nature - this is the foundation on which hortiterapy is based. What exactly is this fascinating form of therapy? It is an approach that harnesses the power of plants to support our physical and mental health. Contact with greenery, working in the garden or even simply spending time outdoors allows us to regain inner peace and balance. In a hectic world, nature becomes an oasis that helps us reconnect with ourselves and the world around us.

Hortitherapy can take many forms, depending on what we need at the time. One of these is passive hortitherapy - It consists of being surrounded by plants. It is a real feast for the senses: the colourful flowers, the scents of the plants and the rustle of the leaves have an extraordinary power to stimulate our mental activity. The smells and colours improve our mood and put us in a relaxed state. In turn active horticulture is working with plants, which is nothing more than planting or caring for plants. These activities not only engage our bodies, but also contribute to our health. Such activities increase our physical activity, reduce stress and help maintain mental balance. Both forms of this therapy are effective tools that can help to combat everyday stress, improving quality of life and health.

Hortitherapy - benefits for body and mind

Working in the garden is not only a great opportunity to catch rays of sunshine and replenish vitamin D. Hortitherapy brings with it a range of benefits that affect various aspects of our lives. Here are the four most important areas where positive effects are seen:

1. Physical benefits - Regular work in the garden improves physical fitness, improves motor skills and strengthens endurance. It is an excellent way to look after your body in a natural and enjoyable way.
2. Cognitive benefits - Gardening stimulates our mind, improving our concentration and problem-solving ability. Through regular gardening, we also exercise our memory and our planning skills become more precise and effective.
3. Psychological benefits - Contact with nature significantly reduces stress and anxiety levels. What's more, it can contribute to an increase in optimism and a sense of calm, which has a positive impact on our wellbeing.
4. Social benefits - Gardening is also a great opportunity to establish and maintain interpersonal relationships. Working together in the garden promotes integration and bonding with others, which is an invaluable aspect in today's busy world.