There are times when life can just get to you; a hectic work schedule, annoying people, and a to-do list as long as your arm. When I find myself going a little stir crazy and I feel like I need to regroup and get my head together, I head out into my garden.
Did you ever notice that when you're doing something you love, you actually feel better? I do. I read a study that said growing a garden can improve your emotional health, and I totally believe it. Who needs self-esteem therapy when you have this oasis of positive energy in front of you? When I work in the garden, I have total control. I don't have a boss breathing down my neck telling me what to grow and how to do it, and the plants always agree with my decisions. I stand back and look at my creation and the flowers applaud my greatness. The bushes think I'm brilliant, and every day, when I look out the window and see what I've done, I feel really good about myself. Tell me another time in your work day that you can feel so perfectly, well....perfect?
When I first started gardening I thought it might be hard on my back, but I found out the opposite was true. Stretching, bending, and digging, gardening is like a form of back yard yoga. Considering I used to use the excuse that I didn't have time for a real exercise routine, I don't think I've ever felt better. Combine that with breathing in fresh air, it's no wonder experts believe that gardening can help to ward off depression. I never get bored, and there's always something new to learn when I add a new plant to my garden designs.
I'm always on the go, and my mind is usually going a thousand miles per hour as I mentally check off things I have to do. But when I garden, it all falls away. I'm connected with the Earth and feel like I've got my private Eden. Gardening is like meditation. It's focused, mindful and deliberate. No phones ringing, no deadlines, no traffic jams forcing my blood pressure up through the top of my head.
Ok, so gardening won't solve the world's problems, or get the boss off my back. The fact is, we all need to remember that these plants are survivors-they have lasted millions of years without our help. How could we not stop and take time to smell the roses?
