The Glory of Gardening Eat, Sleep, Plant

The Glory of Gardening: Eat, Sleep, Plant, Repeat More than a third of U.S. adults report insufficient sleep. In New Mexico alone 32.1% of the adult population report getting less than 7 hours sleep per night. Sleep deprivation is becoming an increasing problem in the modern world. Experts believe that the main causes of insufficient sleep include using technology late at night, and occupational factors such as shift work or long working hours that create inconsistent bedtimes.

The Glory of Gardening

While people are becoming more aware of the effects that modern technological advancements and evolving human lifestyles are having on the environment, the effects on humans themselves has become a pressing concern. In recent years, people have begun to learn how they can use their own gardens to protect and sustain the habitats of insects such as butterflies and bees, damaged by modern agriculture and urbanization. Similarly, people are keen to get back to nature and learn about the ways in which their gardens can protect and sustain their own wellbeing, with adequate sleep being a central concern.

What Sunlight Is To Plants, Sleep Is To Humans

It is more important than ever to be aware of the consequences that insufficient sleep can have on the population. Numerous studies have been carried out into the long-term health consequences of sleep deprivation, and the results are worrying. The studies show that people who sleep poorly are at greater risk of developing chronic and even life-threatening diseases including obesity, diabetes, depression and cardiovascular disease, to name just a few.

Plants to help you sleep

One of the key benefits of getting a good night’s sleep is the regulation of the body’s hormonal system. Hormones play a huge part in our overall health, controlling and coordinating activities throughout the human body. A study carried out in 2016 proved that insufficient or poor-quality sleep can affect testosterone and melatonin.  Two hormones which play a huge part in a man and woman’s ability to conceive a child naturally. With sleep playing such an integral part in people’s lifestyles, it’s no wonder that more and more people are looking for accessible and natural ways to improve their nightly rest.

Nurturing Garden, Mind, and Body

If you experience poor sleep, there are numerous plants and flowers you can grow in your own garden.  Perhaps one of the most commonly known is Lavender. In its French form, Lavender is an outdoor plant that has many uses, most commonly as an aid for sleep and relaxation. Planted in sunlight, well-drained soil, this therapeutic subshrub is thought to reduce blood pressure and heart rate, thus having a calming effect on the body.

Jasmine plants to reduce anxiety

Thanks to its delicate scent and air purification qualities.  Jasmine is a good outdoor plant that is proven to reduce anxiety levels and aid sleep. Available in both Winter and Summer, Jasmine is a climbing plant.  It can be strategically planted below bedroom windows to encourage a better night’s sleep. Cuttings can also be used, along with lavender, to make a scented pouch to keep near your bed, or to use in a relaxing tea to help you wind down before bedtime.

Finally, the Valerian plant is a sleep-inducing perennial gift that keeps on giving. While offering elegantly fragrant pink or white flowers for you to enjoy in the Summer months.  Its root system has long been known for its sedative qualities. Valerian tea is the go-to natural remedy for insomnia and other sleep problems, and the scent from the plant itself is also said to aid relaxation. Plant in well-drained soil with full to partial sunlight to optimize growth.

Go and Get Your Hands Dirty

Getting out into the garden is an age-old remedy for maintaining good physical and mental wellbeing. It provides physical exercise, exposure to nature and the feel-good factor of nurturing something to grow and thrive. What more could you need?  Visit your local garden center to find out about the health benefits of other plants you can grow in your own garden.  As you continue on your journey to a better night’s sleep.

The Glory of Gardening