Healing Through Soil: Gardening and Grief
I have fond memories of running barefoot as a child, picking tomatoes and cucumbers from our garden. In my mind, that garden was the hallmark of summer, though I did not truly appreciate the effort it required until much later in life. It has taken me nearly a lifetime to value the seeds sown by my father, who passed away nearly one year ago.
My father spent most of his time outside manicuring our lawn. Like many who grieve, I have a wishlist of things I wish I had done before he died, such as learning from him before he was unable to work outside. Instead, I am now learning through my own trial and error, hoping to grow produce as ripe as those from my childhood.
Gardening is not only nostalgic for me, but it is also therapeutic. Research highlights numerous benefits, including exposure to beneficial soil bacteria that improve the immune system. A 2024 meta-analysis study also noted that gardening provides:
- A full-body workout: Encouraging balance, strength, flexibility, and endurance.
- Mental health support: Reducing symptoms of depression and anxiety.
- Improved quality of life: Enhancing socialization, life satisfaction, and a sense of freedom.
For me, the physical labor of pulling weeds and mowing the lawn makes me feel strong. Digging provides an emotional outlet, and building a sustainable garden for pollinators allows me to contribute to climate change efforts. Even when I make mistakes, the sense of accomplishment makes the work worth it.
As a beginner, I want to thank Pamela Doan, owner of Flower Forest Gardens, for helping me transform my lawn into a native plant and vegetable garden. If you are near Putnam County, NY, I highly recommend her services for building your own pollinator haven. For those in urban areas, community gardens or indoor plants are great ways to start small.
I view my garden as an extension of what my father offered me. While grief leaves many questions unanswered, I find peace in the garden as I work toward acceptance. I hope nature offers that same solace for you in whatever you may be grieving.