Garden Therapy - Cure the Blues.Go with the Yellows

 
 Feeling down? listless? unmotivated?
 
Before you reach for a pill (did you know that reports say that one in 10 Americans older than 12 take antidepressants?) why not go outside?

Being outdoors can lighten your mood immeasurably.


GET IN THE GARDEN AND WORK.

In Europe, doctors prescribe exercise for their depression patients. But I say combine exercise and getting out in nature by gardening, potting up a plant in a can, pruning, edging, anything....

 
 
 
 
 Go out and cut some flowers.
 

 
Or take a 'forest therapy' walk. Breathe in the air, get in sync with nature and you'll definitely feel a little better.
 
 
 
 
GET YOUR SUN ON! 
 
 
 
Sunlight is Nature's anti-depressant because it stimulates serotonin in your brain.  Bright light absorbed through the eyes - from the retina to the pineal  gland - stimulates production of serotonin, the same neurotransmitter that's boosted by the type of antidepressant medication called selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs).   
 
 
Therefore sunlight regulates your body chemistry, all organs of your body, including your brain. Gardening forces us to be out in the sun for a time.
 
NIBBLE ON ANTI-DEPRESSANT SNACKS.

While you are in the garden nibble on walnuts and dark chocolate. (click here for more info).

 
LISTEN TO FUNNY SKITS.

While you are outside, shoveling and working muscles, Laugh a lot. Listen to a funny comedy routine through a headset.  Studies have shown that laughter does really make you feel better. I like Who's on first' . Click on this, watch it and start laughing (or at least smiling, which also helps you fight the blues).

 
GET DIRTY! 

Studies have shown that there are microbes in garden soil that work better than antidepressants. Do not wear gloves. Important. The healing power of connecting with soil is much overlooked.
 

 
LISTEN TO UPLIFTING MUSIC.

 Listen to whatever makes you happy and up. I like Paul Simon. upbeat Indian Music. East African Music. Beatles. Mozart.
 
SURROUND YOURSELF WITH YELLOW.

Yellow increases serotonin too. So plant lots of Yellow Flowers and Yellow Foliage.  Fight the Blues and go with the Yellows!
 
 
 

Comments

  1. AnonymousMay 14, 2013 at 9:31 PM

    Wow! I did not know that! I started a garden this year and am new to your site... But so far I love it! Keep up the great work!
    Liza
    www.lizakekky.com

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Jan JohnsenMay 15, 2013 at 4:11 PM

      I hope you enjoy the fresh air and sunshine!

      Delete
  2. maddsolutiononlineMay 15, 2013 at 7:58 AM

    This comment has been removed by a blog administrator.

    ReplyDelete
  3. AnonymousMay 16, 2013 at 8:26 AM

    What a great thought by May Sarton, "Everything that slows us down and forces patience, everything that sets us back into the slow circles of nature, is a help.
    Gardening is an instrument of grace. "
    wanted to know what kind of garden fence is it behind the luxardo tins ?

    ReplyDelete
  4. Jan JohnsenMay 16, 2013 at 10:58 AM

    good old chicken wire with small openings.


    ReplyDelete

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