There are the obvious escapes, of course, like alcohol, sex, meditation, screaming into a pillow . . . But we’ll let you in on a little secret that you would never expect to come from the likes of us: gardening.
Yes, it’s a bizarre and unlikely suggestion, especially considering we have yet to find stylish black gardening gloves, but hear us out.
The Mental Perks
Because gardening requires focus, patience, and (our personal fave) silence, it will easily become your new favourite hobby.
As you carefully trim and tidy that random whatchamacallit bush you planted a month back, you’ll become very present. You’ll ponder relationships (past, present, and future), reflect on your current mental state, and finally have the uninterrupted time and space you need to just think. Suddenly, you’ll have solutions to those pesky problems that have been keeping you up at night.
The Physical Perks
If you want to reap the physical benefits of your new favourite pastime, you’re going to have to get down and dirty. The more muscle you put in, the better the results will be. Did you know that an hour of gardening can burn anywhere from 120 calories (watering a couple plants) to 450 calories (raking the leaves)? Not to mention you’re simultaneously working on a sweet tan.
Gardening has also been linked to lowered stress levels, a stronger heart and immune system, and improved sleep and mental health.
Gardening 101: Getting Started
If you’ve never set foot in your backyard (other than to sneak an occasional cigarette or pick up dog shit), here’s a mini beginner’s guide on getting your hands dirty.
You won’t need much in terms of tools and machinery, just a basic gardening set that appeals to you on Amazon, a small push mower, and a rake. Wear clothes you give zero fucks about and leave your phone inside.
Begin by cleaning up stray weeds, random dying plants, and anything else that’s unappealing. Trim bushes and florals; mow and rake the grass. If you’re feeling earnest and want to plant something new, make sure to do some preliminary research on what will most certainly not kill it—be aware of your climate, how much sun you get, or the shitty soil that may need to be replaced. If you’re a neat freak, this work will bring you similar gratification.
It is so damn rewarding to sit back in your outdoor chaise and breathe in all that you’ve accomplished. Before you know it, you will be reaping the benefits of solitude, reflection, beauty, and peace, with a side of dusty pink roses. Practically a private Parisian garden, right?
Get to it, girl. You can thank us later.
Note: We get that not all ladies are living on acres of rich land. If you’re more of a condo-in-the-middle-of-the-city chick, look into community gardening or pretty up that balcony of yours, Euro style.