"Just 5 minutes of gardening improves both self-esteem and mood." Environmental Science & Technology study findings.
This year I had considered not gardening because I thought it might be just one more thing I had to do, but while I was out sifting the rich black dirt between my fingers, planting good-quality lettuce seeds, and enjoying and learning from a good friend in the garden, I knew planting a garden would be a nurturing activity for me -- not a depleting one. And then I read of this research. Tending a patch of earth also supports us in being more tranquil, generous and hopeful. It restores our well being. Plus, I get to look forward to nutritious organic produce in a few weeks.
As dementia caregivers we can be stretched pretty thin. Gardening may be an outlet that replenishes you. It is worth considering.
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