The Garden of Calm

She knelt among the blooming marigolds, brushing soil gently from the petals. Gardening has been shown to reduce stress, improve mood, and support both physical and mental health through light exercise and connection to nature (Soga et al. 92).

Studies also indicate that horticultural activities enhance motivation and mindfulness, helping individuals regain focus and emotional balance (Van den Berg and Custers 162). Each plant she tended reminded her that care, patience, and consistency produce growth, both in the garden and within herself.

Works Cited

Soga, Masashi, et al. “Gardening Is Beneficial for Health: A Meta-Analysis.” Preventive Medicine Reports, vol. 5, 2017, pp. 92–99.
Van den Berg, Agnes E., and Mariëtte H. G. Custers. “Gardening Promotes Neuroendocrine and Affective Restoration from Stress.” Journal of Health Psychology, vol. 16, no. 1, 2011, pp. 3–11.