Gardening eased lockdown loneliness as pandemic paralyzed Britain
Loneliness has been one of the most difficult aspects of lockdown for many people. The lack of human interaction and the feeling of isolation can be overwhelming, particularly for those living alone.
But there has been one silver lining to the pandemic for many people – gardening.
For some, gardening has always been a passion, but for others it has been a way to cope with the stresses of lockdown. Whether it’s growing vegetables, tending to flower beds or simply pottering around the garden, getting outside and connecting with nature has been a huge boost to mental health.
Gardening is also a great way to meet new people, even if you’re practicing social distancing. There are plenty of online forums and Facebook groups where gardeners can share tips and advice, and many local councils have started initiatives to get people gardening together.
So, if you’re feeling lonely during lockdown, get outside and get gardening!
It is no secret that Britain has been one of the countries most affected by the pandemic. With a death toll of over 100,000 and a strict lockdown in place for several months, the nation has been left reeling. One of the groups most affected by the lockdown has been the elderly, who have been isolated from their families and friends. This is where gardening has stepped in.
Gardening has long been known to have positive mental health benefits, but these have been amplified during the pandemic. For many elderly people, gardening has provided a sense of purpose and routine during a time when everything has felt uncertain. It has also given them a chance to connect with nature, which has been shown to boost mood and reduce stress levels.
Crucially, gardening has also helped to combat loneliness. With regular social interactions being limited, many older people have felt cut off from the world. However, by spending time in their gardens, they have been able to find some solace and companionship. For some, this has even led to new friendships, as they have connected with other gardeners in their local community.
uk.reuters.com
