Studies have shown that gardening can reduce stress, anxiety, depression and improve attention.

I know a lot of people think that gardening or even growing flowers is hard work and takes a lot of time or is hard work. It is what you make of it. If you put in the time and a little care for your plants, they will give back to you.

I enjoy my time in my garden. Some days it can be three hours, and some days it is only long enough to do a quick walk by and make sure the plants are doing fine.

I find when I’m working in the garden, I leave life behind for a time. Not that I don’t live with my family and friends, but I feel it is relaxing.

During the summer, I can’t wait to get home and see if one of my tomatoes is ready to be picked or if I have any new blossoms on the strawberry plants. When I’m working in the garden, I just relax and think about the plants.

Gardening can also be a great form of exercise. 30 to 45 minutes can burn up to 300 calories, almost the same as a walk. Pulling weeds, watering, or even just walking in the garden are all a good way to get the heart pumping.

Studies also say that gardening can boost your mood. I know watching everything grow and what I will be harvesting boosts my mood. I see my hard work pay off and also see how I am providing for my family and friends.

I recently learned that people who suffer from addiction problems take up horticulture or agriculture activities. They say that negative energy can be focused into positive energy, and they can see before them how they can help something grow.

If you give flowers to someone, remember the smile it puts on their face. A garden can do just that but every day.

If you are an avid gardener, maybe you can help someone be a little happier during this pandemic. Perhaps you know someone that would be happy to receive a tomato plant of their own. Give them something to care for and maybe it will help take away some of the loneliness so many are feeling right now.