The benefits of being in the garden run much deeper than just exercise. A King’s Fund report on the health benefits of gardening were found to be broad and diverse, with research studies showing significant reductions in depression and anxiety and improved social functioning. Gardening can also help maintain independence and prevent cognitive decline. Tokyo and Exeter Universities also found robust evidence for the positive effects of gardening on health, calling for governments and health organisations to promote gardening.
Gardening offers ways to use and move your body. This could be through physical tasks that burn calories, or, it could be through gentle activities that develop fine motor skills. It can also support our mental wellbeing in so many ways, from building confidence to boosting mood or feeling calm and helping you feel connected, gardens offer choice and creativity.
We are running a FREE five day gardening & well being focused course at Memorial Park Community Garden in Luton designed to have positive impact on mental health, self esteem & confidence. Eligible participants will:
- Learn a range of practical gardening skills and how to apply them in a community garden setting
- Undertake nature based/well-being tasks for positive mental health
- Improve and develop employability skills and attitudes
- Improve skills and confidence in communication and teamwork
- Experience working as part of a team & feeling confident to work independently
- Take part in more physical activity to improve both physical and mental health
To be eligible, you just need to be a Luton resident aged 19+. All abilities welcome and all resources provided by Groundwork!
Next Courses
WHERE: Memorial Park Community Garden, Luton, LU2 7HA TIME: 10am – 2pm
If you want to learn how to maintain and develop an allotment space in a relaxed and inclusive environment and meet like minded members of your community, or you just want to find out a bit more about it, get in touch with us, we’d love to hear from you!
E: kealey.henderson@groundwork.org.uk T: 07702 941445
