Children, adults, and seniors all benefit from spending time outdoors. Trees, greenery, and fresh air are soothing and healthy. Here are some of the top benefits of getting out of the house to work on your garden design or pull weeds.

Why You Should Spend More Time in the Garden

1. Lower Stress

Studies have found that even just taking a walk among trees or in other green areas can lower stress hormones in your body. Chronic stress is a risk factor for many serious health conditions, including heart disease. By taking this time to relax, you're not only improving your mental health, but also your physical health.

2. Get Vitamin D

Vitamin D is an essential nutrient that boosts your immune system and helps the body process calcium to keep your bones strong. The human body produces this vitamin naturally, but only when you get enough sunlight each day.

A garden gives you a reason to be out in the sun. Just don't stay out too long without UV protection; 10 to 30 minutes around noon will get you your daily dose. If the sun is lower or if you're in a partially shaded area such as under a tree, it will take longer.

3. Raise Your Activity Level

To be as healthy as possible, you should be getting moderate exercise several times a week. But any activity that gets you up out of your seat is an improvement over being sedentary. Gardening isn't strenuous exercise, but it's better for your body than staying indoors and raises your overall activity level, which benefits your health.

For trees, shrubs, and other supplies to start your garden, visit Edgefield Plant & Stone Center in Greensboro, NC. Since 2003, we've helped people from the Triad Area and beyond find the perfect plants and accessories for their yards, drawing on over 30 years of experience. Call (336) 662-0081 for any questions or look through our inventory online.