The doctor spoke about the impact of gardening on mental health

Working on the land can have a positive effect on a person's psychoemotional state, but it is not an independent method of treating mental disorders. Irina Krashkina, a psychotherapist at JSC "Medicine" (Academician Roitberg Clinic), Candidate of Medical Sciences, told Izvestia about this on April 30.

According to the expert, gardening can act as an auxiliary tool that complements psychotherapy and drug treatment. In particular, it can accelerate recovery from stressful conditions and reduce the risk of repeated episodes of anxiety or depression, provided an integrated approach.

"The positive effect is explained by neurobiological mechanisms. Moderate physical activity outdoors for 20-30 minutes reduces cortisol levels by 15-22%, which helps reduce stress. In addition, contact with soil can trigger processes related to the production of serotonin, a neurotransmitter that affects mood," the expert explained.

Cognitive regime change also plays an important role. Repetitive but meaningful actions, such as caring for plants, help shift attention and reduce mental stress, which has a positive effect on restoring mental resources.

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At the same time, Krashkina added, the therapeutic effect is possible only if certain conditions are met. She recommends gardening for 30-45 minutes 3-4 times a week, avoiding overwork. It is important to focus on the process rather than the result in order to avoid the additional stress associated with perfectionism.

Special attention is paid to the so—called multisensory grounding, which focuses attention on sensations such as soil temperature, plant moisture, and breathing rhythm. This approach helps to reduce the fixation on negative thoughts and restore the feeling of "here and now."

At the same time, according to the therapist, the method has limitations. In the acute phase of mental disorders, with severe depression or a high degree of exhaustion, such activity can be an excessive burden. In such cases, gardening is recommended to be introduced gradually and only after the condition has stabilized, preferably under the supervision of a specialist.

As a practical approach, Krashkina advises starting with simple plants, such as mint, basil or calendula, and also recording mood changes before and after classes. After 4-6 weeks of regular practice, many people note a decrease in anxiety, improved sleep, and increased daily activity.

On May 6, 2025, doctor Irina Geroeva gave advice to summer residents on how to work safely in the garden. According to the expert, it is important to stretch your muscles regularly, doing simple stretching and relaxation exercises, and not stay in a bent position for a long time.