Sowing the seeds of recovery: Gardening and Cancer

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Studies have shown gardening may be effective in alleviating depression associated with cancer and even in reducing breast cancer risk.

We wanted to share these studies with you prior to the launch of our 3-part Gardening series with Dino next Friday, February 20 at 12:30 pm. We hope you find these articles informative. Please bring any questions you have to our gardening expert and workshop leader, Dino. There is still space open so RSVP by calling 310-314-2555 or by filling out a form online.

Gardening and depression

In an online survey of 41 gardeners living with cancer, 80% of participants said that gardening helped to reduce stress and anxiety, and helped to take their mind off treatment. This study was conducted by Macmillan Cancer Support and the the National Gardens Scheme (NGS).

Macmillan's Chief Medical Officer, Professor Maher, says:

"... It's so important that we bust this myth that cancer patients should 'rest up'. So many patients and professionals still believe that it is necessary to rest during and after cancer treatment. However, we know that doing moderate physical activity such as gardening on a regular basis actually helps to significantly reduce the impact of side-effects of cancer treatment such as depression, fatigue, bone thinning, muscle wasting and heart damage ..."

Gardening and breast cancer

A study published in the International Journal of Cancer and funded by Cancer Research UK found that gardening, doing housework and walking the dog can reduce the risk of developing breast cancer by up to 13%. 

In 8,000 women examined by researchers, those who were most active were 13% less likely to get breast cancer than those who were inactive. Women who were moderately active were 8% less likely, providing further evidence for the beneficial effects of maintaining an active lifestyle.

Personal story: gardening restores the body and soul

This personal anecdote stems from Mayo Clinic's Living with Cancer blog. This story is shared by Nurse Sheryl Ness, and focuses on the benefits she has experienced through gardening. Here is an excerpt from her article: 

"... Having a garden in your life can be restoring. It gives you something to care for, celebrate, and later on, gives back by producing flowers, fruits or vegetables to nourish your body and your soul. A great idea is to also include aromatic plants such as lavender, rosemary, mint and other herbs to give your senses a treat as well ..."

Nurse Ness' full article is available, here.

Thank you for reading! Do you have a story about how gardening has improved your life during or post-cancer? Please share in the comments below.