Gardening Does a Body Good

Why Winter Is the Perfect Time to Start Thinking About Outdoor Gardening

Outdoor gardening is a hobby I never thought I’d enjoy—until I gave it a try. To my surprise, it quickly became one of my favorite activities, and not just because of the rewarding sight of flowers blooming or fresh vegetables on my plate. Gardening offers so much more than meets the eye, including a variety of health benefits:

• It releases endorphins: These “feel-good” chemicals boost your mood naturally, helping to reduce feelings of stress or anxiety.
• It provides Vitamin D: Spending time outdoors allows you to soak up sunshine, an essential source of Vitamin D, which supports bone health and immune function.
• It’s a great workout: Whether you’re digging, planting, weeding, or hauling soil, gardening helps you burn calories and build strength.
• It relieves stress: The peaceful rhythm of tending to plants can quiet a busy mind, giving you a moment of calm amid life’s chaos.
• It improves sleep: The combination of fresh air, light physical activity, and stress relief can enhance your sleep quality.

Even though it’s the middle of winter, now is the perfect time to start preparing for the gardening season. Gardening isn’t just about digging into the soil—it’s about planning, dreaming, and getting ready to cultivate something beautiful.

Why Plan Ahead?

The best gardens begin with a plan. Winter gives you the opportunity to research, gather supplies, and map out your goals for the growing season ahead. Whether you want to start a vegetable garden, add some vibrant blooms to your yard, or create a space for pollinators like bees and butterflies, preparing early sets the stage for success.

Here are a few steps you can take right now:

1. Research what grows well in your area: Depending on your climate, certain plants will thrive better than others. Make a list of flowers, herbs, or vegetables you’d like to grow and find out when to plant them.
2. Order seeds and supplies: Avoid the last-minute rush by purchasing seeds, soil, and tools ahead of time. Many gardening retailers offer discounts on seeds and gardening supplies during the winter months.
3. Plan your space: Sketch out your garden layout. Consider factors like sunlight, soil type, and spacing needs for your plants.
4. Start a compost pile: Composting now will give you rich, nutrient-packed soil to use when planting season arrives.
5. Learn and get inspired: Winter is the perfect time to read books, watch tutorials, or even take a class on gardening. There’s always something new to learn, whether you’re a beginner or a seasoned pro.

A Hobby Worth Trying

If you’re not a gardener yet, I encourage you to give it a try. You might discover a passion you didn’t know you had. The act of nurturing plants and watching them grow is incredibly fulfilling. Plus, the added health benefits—like reduced stress, improved fitness, and better sleep—make gardening a hobby that truly supports your well-being.

So, while the cold weather might make spring feel far away, take advantage of this time to dream big, plan, and prepare. Before you know it, the ground will thaw, the days will lengthen, and you’ll be ready to dig in—both figuratively and literally.

Happy gardening!