Alleviating Stress

​It’s nearly November – can you believe it?  2020 has been a tad stressful so far, and looks to continue to be so.  With all the to-ing and fro-ing about local and possible national lockdowns, it seems that the focus on Christmas is even more prevalent.  It’s bad enough when the mince-pies appear on the shelves in September [ridiculous] but the increasing discussions around what is going to happen over the next couple of months is getting a bit much.
 
So, here are a few tips from various gardening websites which might help to alleviate stress:

Go outside!  Studies have shown that even a few minutes outdoors each day can improve mood and lift anxiety.

Take a DEEP breath – or two. Taking deep, purposeful breaths—especially those that go into the belly—can help to immediately focus thoughts and alleviate stress.

Move your body. Whatever works - enjoy a walk, do some cleaning, dance madly, run in circles, swim, do some weeding…. any physical movement helps whatever might be on your mind:
 
To help with the above here are a few gardening jobs for November - there are plenty more but these are the ones I have tackled so far:

•  Cut back perennials
• Mulch over dormant perennials for protection
• Protect roses from wind-rock by pruning by one-third (to half their height)
• Lift and store any root crops (carrots, swede, beetroot and turnips)
• Harvest leeks as needed – especially if they are ‘bolting’ (flowering) 
• Dig over the veg patch and flower beds
• Hoe back persistent weeds
• Plant bulbs for next spring and summer
• Sow broad beans (outside)
• Sow garlic
• Sow sweet peas (under cover)
• Collect leaves and add to compost
• Plant deciduous trees and shrubs
  
  

Focus on your physical health. Take precautions against normal colds and snivels, and eat plenty of fruit, vegetables and whole foods.

Avoid digital media - studies have shown that prolonged social media use is linked to anxiety, depression, and feelings of isolation. Keep up with the news but do not be overwhelmed by it twenty-four hours a day.

Laugh! Laughter has been shown to increase oxygen flow and promote a particular relaxation response in the brain. These effects can help to relieve pain and encourage more restful sleep.
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Sleep and rest.