Friends and gardening enthusiasts, here’s the good news of the day. Taking care of your garden is not only great for the mind but also for your waistline. Gardening is a physical activity in its own right — and we should absolutely take advantage of it.
When we think about losing weight, we often imagine intense workouts, restrictive diets or long hours sweating in a gym. Yet there is an activity that is accessible, calming and highly effective, but often overlooked: gardening. While gardening is great for mental well-being thanks to the soothing effects of reconnecting with nature, it is also excellent for the body. According to a Harvard Medical School study, one hour of gardening burns between 300 and 400 calories on average — the equivalent of an hour of cycling or brisk walking.
Gentle but complete activity
Gardening engages the whole body. You squat, stand up, carry plants to replant, water, weed, dig, prune… all movements that work the muscles in your legs, arms, back and core. Unlike traditional workouts, gardening is often done over longer periods without even noticing it. A morning spent maintaining a vegetable patch, trimming a hedge or planting flowers can easily equal a full workout — but in a more pleasant and less restrictive way, with the added bonus of a beautifully maintained garden and a slimmer silhouette.
A valuable ally for a healthier lifestyle
Gardening also encourages a healthier lifestyle by growing your own fruits and vegetables, reducing stress, improving sleep quality and reducing snacking thanks to the occupation of both mind and hands. According to a study published in *The American Journal of Public Health*, people who garden regularly have a Body Mass Index on average 1.84 points lower than those who do not garden.
Simple, accessible and beneficial for both mind and body, gardening is an excellent ally for well-being! Whether you have a large garden or just a few pots on a balcony, every gesture counts. So… shall we get started?
