Gardening and Mental Health

Many have remarked on the benefits that gardening can have on your health, and we feel well placed to add to that list. At Enviro we are a team of people that work outdoors each working day, experiencing the changing seasons, weather, wildlife, and plants. Like the great Dolly Parton once said, ‘If you want the rainbow, you gotta put up with the rain!’

Studies show that time spent in green spaces, engaging in physical activity, and social interactions, are leading indicators of a person’s wellbeing. This is a constant throughout life, and working outdoors increases the amount of time doing all three. In the landscaping industry, there are strong bonds formed between team members whilst out on the job through shared experiences of working in adverse weather conditions, early starts, and the sense of job satisfaction at the end of the day.

Being at one with the seasons is one of the great advantages of working outside. Although the winter can be particularly harsh in the UK, there is a sense of accomplishment we all feel when a day’s work is completed despite the rain, cold, and wind. With layers and a solid pair of boots, you mitigate this to the point where you enjoy your time on site whatever the weather! On the other side of this, once we enter spring and summer, the feeling of being able to work outside in the warm, sunnier days is monumental after coming through a long winter.

Beyond this, we can see the seasons as reflective of our own experiences in life. As Monty Don explains, the "rhythm of the natural world puts life in perspective." Getting outside and witnessing the changing of the seasons can provide a sense of hope, Monty explained. "Spring will come. Summer will come. The flowers will grow." This awareness of the cyclical and reliable quality of natural world around us can help people who are struggling with a range of mental health issues. Focusing your mind away from internal pressures and nurturing a green area or plant shifts your attention out of your mind and into your body.

Most studies linking gardening and mental health are criticised for not addressing the link between income and access to green spaces. This is evidently an issue when advocating for gardening as a treatment for mental health issues. Working outdoors can circumnavigate this issue as you can access these spaces regardless of where you live. We are also working to support initiatives to rewild urban areas to increase access for those on lower incomes.

Some other benefits that have been cited by research include improving social networks, as is done through the team here and through talking to the public out on site. People have been noted to change their attitude towards work and enjoy learning new skills, sleep and physical health improve due to consistent activity, and meaningful work in fresh air also added to the overall enjoyment of gardening. Ultimately, this grounding activity can take you into new environments, introduce you to new skills, and connect you with people and nature.

From speaking to our team, it is clear the support working outside can provide. Ranging from individuals needing a break from office jobs, setting up in new locations after a change of circumstances, or coming out of a stint of unemployment, Enviro has and continues to be the positive change needed for people after a difficult time. Other employees who struggle with traditional office work due to conditions such as ADHD, thrive outdoors. The constant movement and direction of energy towards physical and tangible tasks helps them manage their condition.

Other aspects of the job which encourage healthy behaviour, is the lack of screen time during the day. Operatives will generally not use screens and therefore reduces issues with eye sight, RSD, posture issues from sitting at a computer, and isolation when working from home.

From the studies mentioned above and the general benefits of being outdoors, we would encourage anyone looking for a change in their life or a chance to learn new skills to consider working with us at Enviro. We have a great team environment, train you on all tools and machinery, and you can be sure to work in some stunning locations across the South West.

Apply today at https://uk.indeed.com/cmp/Enviro-78d931b0/jobs?jk=e0ebc016ea40c9f9&start=0

If you would like more information please call 0800 878 9099.