06/24/2026
One of the primary ways gardening combats stress is by lowering levels of cortisol, the body's main stress hormone.
Studies show that even short sessions of gardening (as little as 10–30 minutes) can significantly reduce cortisol and promote relaxation.
In one notable experiment, participants who gardened after a stressful task showed lower cortisol levels and reported less stress compared to those who simply read indoors.
The physical activity involved—weeding, digging, planting, and raking—serves as gentle exercise that releases endorphins and dopamine, the brain's "feel-good" chemicals.
This not only lightens mood but also reduces symptoms of anxiety and depression, often rivaling the benefits of more structured workouts.
