I’ve always said that I’m happiest when playing in the dirt! And now that the soil is warming up, I’m so happy I can get out and do just that! Did you know that getting your hands dirty in the garden can actually make you happier and healthier?
New studies show that getting in the garden and getting dirty is a natural antidepressant due to unique microbes in healthy organic soil. Working and playing in soil can actually make you happier and healthier. The way it works is the “happy” microbes in soil cause cytokine levels to rise, which leads to the production of more serotonin. This bacterium is found in healthy soil and when humans are exposed to it, the microbe stimulates serotonin production. Serotonin makes us feel relaxed and happier.
There’s also a growing body of research that is showing that microbes – microscopic organisms such as bacteria, fungi and viruses – and dirt are crucial for our well-being. Research indicates that early exposures to a variety of microbes may help lower the risk of developing conditions like asthma and allergies.
So get out and play in the mud and dirt!
Learn more at these links:
Antidepressant Microbes In Soil: How Soil Makes Your Brain Happy
Could Getting Dirty and Being Exposed to Germs Boost Your Health?
How playing in dirt boosts your health