Wenslus Murape
Andrew Mangwarara
THIS week, I learnt of the demise of a friend, Osbert Roderick Mackinnon-Peel, due to cancer.
Osbert was a professional mechanic with a deep passion for gardening.
This week we feature some pictures of his garden.
We thank him for his dedication to community assistance programmes.
In light of his passion, we further explore the healing benefits of gardening.
Studies have shown that patients with garden views recover more quickly than those facing walls.
Interestingly, they also require less pain medication.
Even a simple view of plants from a balcony can significantly improve one’s mood.
However, the most significant benefits are derived from actively engaging in gardening. Moving around in the garden or simply sitting in it also helps.
Participants have reported decreased depression, improved sleep patterns and greater peace of mind.
Gardens have been shown to reduce aggression and agitation in patients.
Research suggests that actively engaging in gardening, rather than simply sitting in a garden, offers even greater therapeutic benefits.
Providing patients with a single pot plant to care for can significantly improve their health and well-being.
It has further been shown that gardeners require less care and attention compared to non-active patients.
Additionally, gardening not only benefits mental health but also physical health by reducing the stress hormone cortisol.
Community gardens can play a crucial role in improving self-esteem, teamwork, social interaction, planning, problem-solving and coping skills.
A three-month community gardening programme has been shown to significantly reduce depression in patients diagnosed with the condition.
It is time for healthcare institutions to embrace the global trend of incorporating gardens into their facilities, allowing patients to actively participate in their healing process.
Patients who can benefit from gardening include those with brain and spinal cord injuries, stroke survivors, the homeless, war veterans, incarcerated individuals, and children and adults with mental health issues.
Individuals with emotional and behavioural disorders, as well as intellectual disabilities, and the ones with autism and those suffering from dementia also stand to benefit.
Gardening helps by focusing minds and bodies on purposeful tasks that promote calmness and self-satisfaction, stimulate the senses and improve mood.
In conclusion, research has demonstrated that gardening can reduce stress, lower blood pressure, decrease feelings of fear, anger and sadness, and improve overall confidence.
If you would like to be featured in our green-up campaign, contact us on the number above. Feedback: ataurai@gmail.com or sundaymail@zimpapers.co.zw
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