6 Ways To Improve Your Health Using Dirt

Seems like there's a day for everything. Donut Day. Iced Coffee Day. Hot Dog Day.

You can't make this stuff up. There's also a week for everything too. But this week is a good one. It matters. Because it's good for you.

This week is National Garden Week. A lot of folks love to garden. And it can definitely improve your home's curb appeal.

But what most folks don't know is… It's good for you too. That's right, gardening is good for your health — body & mind. 

Check out these benefits:

Burns a ton of calories

Did you know that gardening is considered moderate-intensity exercise? It is. In fact, one hour of gardening burns 330 calories. Which is more than you burn going on a brisk walk. 

Lowers Blood Pressure

All it takes is 30 minutes of moderate physical activity most days of the week to lower blood pressure. So planting, gardening or even raking leaves are all "chores" that can really help your health.

Good for Your Bones

When your skin gets sun it tells your body to make vitamin D. Which helps your body absorb calcium — an essential mineral for bone growth and strength. Just wear your sunscreen. You still get vitamin D with it on. 

Eat Healthier

Only 1 out of 10 adults eats the amount of fruits and veggies they're supposed to. But when you grow fruits and veggies in your backyard, you have access to them all the time. Which makes eating healthy easier than ever. And tastier too!

Relieve Stress

According to a 2017 study, there is a positive correlation between gardening and a reduction in depression & anxiety. In fact, some hospitals use planting as a type of rehab for folks recovering from injuries and other conditions.

Makes You Happier

You guessed it. With the reduction of depression & anxiety… you tend to feel happier. Which makes total sense. The same study from 2017 showed that gardening can lift your spirits & stabilize your mood. 

Wow. I never thought planting flowers or strawberries would be so positive. But when I stop to think about it — it all makes sense. When I garden I get some alone time, I'm outside, and I feel super productive. And with all this science backing me up, I'm going to start gardening even more now.

If you need help getting started, my buddy Frank has a seed vault that is awesome. Not only will you feel great planting & growing these seeds. But you'll also be growing healthy food like lettuce, zucchini, beets and more. They're also heirloom, non-GMO seeds. So you can replant them year after year and continue to eat well season after season.

Well, here's to your new garden. And to seeing your thumb turn green.

God Bless,

Jeff Reagan

Editor, Patriot Health Alliance