Preface: As we look at health trends in 2023, one of the hottest topics is integrating wellness practices into our daily lives to combat rising healthcare costs and improve quality of life. According to incomplete statistics, cardiovascular disease is a major health problem in the United States, affecting more than 71 million Americans. Unhealthy diet, lack of physical activity, smoking and harmful alcohol consumption are important risk factors for the development of these diseases. There is evidence that eating fruits and vegetables, engaging in regular physical activity and avoiding harmful alcohol consumption can effectively reduce the risk of cardiovascular disease. Gardening has also become an effective therapeutic tool and a way to please the mind and body. It is good for both body and mind. At the same time, gardening activities have gradually become a popular trend. The changes in life include:

Health benefits of gardening:

• Sustainable living: With the growing focus on sustainability, gardening supports eco-friendly practices and local food production, reducing the carbon footprint associated with food transportation.
• Mindfulness and Mental Health: In an age where mental health is at the forefront of health discussions, gardening is a form of mindfulness that helps individuals focus on the present moment and find peace in the simple nurturing life.
• Community building: Community gardens and urban farming initiatives are on the rise, fostering a sense of community and shared purpose, which is vital for mental health and social support.

Gardening is both an enjoyable form of recreation and exercise that is good for cardiovascular health. Several studies have shown that participating in gardening activities can reduce the risk of cardiovascular disease and improve cardiovascular health.

Health benefits of gardening:

• Physical exercise: Gardening often involves physical labor such as digging and watering, which can strengthen the cardiovascular system, improve cardiopulmonary function, and reduce the risk of cardiovascular disease.
• Reduce stress: Contact with nature and interaction with plants can reduce stress and anxiety. Gardening is considered a relaxing activity that helps lower blood pressure and ease the load on the heart.
• Mental health: Caring for plants can improve mood, relieve depression, reduce anxiety, and have a positive impact on cardiovascular health.
• Diet improvement: Growing your own vegetables and herbs can provide fresh, organic ingredients that support healthy eating habits, thereby reducing the incidence of cardiovascular disease.
• Social engagement: Sharing experiences and ideas through gardening can help you connect with others, reduce loneliness and benefit cardiovascular health.
• Environmental improvement: Planting plants helps green coverage, promotes ecological balance, purifies the air, and creates a fresher and more pleasant living environment.
• Improving concentration: Gardening requires care and patience, which helps develop the ability to concentrate.

Restorative and Healing Gardening:

For those who already have or are at risk for cardiovascular disease, home gardening can provide beneficial support for health.

Gardening activity itself is a kind of light physical activity, such as tilling, watering, pruning and other actions, which can promote muscle activity and enhance the function of the cardiovascular system. A study published in the journal Phytomedicine found that just 30 minutes of gardening activity per week can significantly reduce the risk of cardiovascular disease.

Gardening may reduce cardiovascular disease

Several studies have shown that participating in gardening activities can reduce the risk of cardiovascular disease and improve cardiovascular health. Research has confirmed that mental stress has an important impact on the occurrence, development and prognosis of cardiovascular diseases, and gardening activities can reduce stress and anxiety. A study published in the journal Mental Health found that garden-related activities (such as pruning, planting, etc.) can significantly reduce stress and anxiety levels, improve overall mental health, and reduce the risk of cardiovascular disease.

Gardening promotes healthy eating

Growing your own vegetables and fruits is part of a gardening practice that can promote healthy eating habits. According to research from the American Heart Association, eating a balanced diet rich in fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and healthy fats is one of the important factors in preventing cardiovascular disease.