Amidst the hustle and bustle of modern life, stress has become an unwelcome companion for many. With Stress Awareness Month upon us, it’s essential to explore effective ways to alleviate stress and promote well-being. Morris Hankinson, garden expert and director of Hopes Grove Nurseries, has curated a selection of plants renowned for their calming properties, while shedding light on the stress-reducing benefits of gardening.
In recent years, the quest for stress relief has led individuals to seek solace in various activities, including gardening. Online searches for ‘fun stress management activities’ have surged by 100% in the past three months, while interest in the ‘mental health benefits of gardening’ has soared by 125% during the same period.
Gardening offers a multi-faceted approach to stress reduction, blending physical activity with sensory engagement and a connection to nature. According to research, regular gardening can lead to a notable decrease in stress levels, fostering a sense of tranquillity and well-being.
Morris Hankinson advocates for a sensory approach to gardening, emphasising the therapeutic value of plants that appeal to our senses. From the calming fragrance of lavender to the tactile allure of lambs’ ears, here are some of his top plant recommendations for stress relief:
Smell – Stress-relieving scented plants:
- Chocolate Cosmos (Cosmos atrosanguineus)
- Lavender (especially ‘English Lavenders’ – Lavandula angustifolia)
- Curry Plant (Helichrysum italicum)
- Night Scented Stocks (Matthiola bicornis)
- Mignonette (Reseda alba)
Touch – Tactile stress-relieving plants:
- Silver Sage (Salvia argentea)
- Lambs Ears (Stachys byzantina)
- Bottlebrush (Callistemon)
- Snapdragon (Antirrhinum)
Sound – Plants for stress-relieving sounds:
- Great quaking grass (Briza maxima)
- Chinese silver grass (Miscanthus)
- Fountain Grass (Pennisetum alopecuroides)
- Bamboo (Phyllostachys) for gentle rustling sounds
Taste – Sensory stress relief for taste buds:
- Nasturtium (Tropaeolium)
- Spearmint (Mentha spicata)
- Rosemary (Rosmarinus officinalis)
- Sweet Basil (Ocimum basilicum)
Vision – Visually appealing stress-relieving plants:
- Bright yellow sunflowers (Helianthus annuus)
- Colourful leaves of Swiss chard (Beta vulgaris)
- Vibrant leaves of Heuchera in various colours
Beyond the therapeutic benefits of specific plants, Morris Hankinson underscores the broader advantages of gardening as a stress-busting activity:
- Connection with nature: Spending time outdoors amidst greenery and fresh air offers a profound sense of rejuvenation and calmness.
- Exercise: Gardening provides a blend of physical activity suitable for all ages and abilities, contributing to stress relief and overall well-being.
- Sense of achievement: From immediate gratification to long-term accomplishments like growing your own produce, gardening fosters a sense of fulfilment and pride.
- Social interaction: Engaging with fellow gardeners promotes camaraderie and shared experiences, reducing feelings of isolation and stress.
- Mindfulness: Gardening encourages focus and presence in the moment, diverting attention from stressors and promoting mental clarity.
- Distraction: The ongoing maintenance and care of a garden offer a consistent and absorbing diversion from daily stressors.
- Grounding: Engaging with nature’s sensory delights fosters a deep sense of connection and mindfulness, grounding individuals in the present moment.
For those considering gardening as a stress-relief activity, Morris offers practical advice:
- Learn the basics: Familiarise yourself with gardening fundamentals through books, online resources, or guidance from experienced gardeners.
- Embrace experimentation: Don’t hesitate to explore unconventional approaches and follow your passion.
- Involve others: Engage family and friends in gardening activities, fostering shared experiences and strengthening bonds.
As Stress Awareness Month unfolds, let us embrace the restorative power of nature and the therapeutic benefits of gardening, cultivating moments of tranquillity and well-being amidst life’s challenges.