Gardening for Relaxation

Stress. I don’t know a working parent that doesn’t feel stressed. Trying to juggle a career, kid’s appointments, sports games and summer camps can really make your brain swirl. Staying organized and having a spouse that can help with some of the drop offs and pick ups is a huge help, but it can still be stressful. Most days, I don’t get an actual lunch break because someone needs to be run somewhere. That means no time to unwind for even a moment and always fighting against time.

So what do you do for stress relief? There are many healthy options – exercise, music, meditation, etc. I enjoy exercising, but on nice evenings in the summer when I’m not at a sports game (and it’s not raining), you’ll find me in the garden. There’s something peaceful about sitting out there pulling weeds and tending to the plants. My daughter came to me while I was sitting in the garden and said to me – I think you would sleep out here if you could. I’m not sure about that, but when I’m out in the garden, the only thing I’m fighting are those pesky weeds.

I also feel good about growing my own vegetables and being able to feed my family literally with the fruits (or veggies in this case) of my labor. This year I’m growing cucumbers, sugar snap peas, green beans, radishes, peppers, tomatoes, zucchini, basil and cilantro.

Comment below and let me know what you like to do for stress relief. Or show me some pictures of your garden!