National horticulture charity, Thrive, is urging people left struggling mentally in lockdown to try a 15-minute daily dose of gardening to lower stress levels, anxiety and depression.

From fostering human connects to building strength, the health benefits of gardening are extensive, both physically and mentally. Recognising the power of horticulture, Thrive wants to encourage Brits to garden for their own good this spring — and beat the blues together.

In order to get people outside, the charity is offering a free four-week calendar of simple daily activities to help Brits connect, learn, stay active, give, and take notice of the natural world around them. Easy for everyone to get involved, all you have to do is download the free guide, slip on your gardening gloves and get planting.

DOWNLOAD CALENDAR

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"Research has shown that many people's mental health has suffered during the pandemic," Kathryn Rossiter, Thrive'S CEO, said. "Gardening and being in nature can make a world of difference by reducing stress, anxiety and depression.

"There are so many people who have struggled through the recent lockdown months and Thrive wants to put a spring back in their step by showing them, through easy and accessible activities, how gardening and nature can help."

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Betsie Van der Meer//Getty Images

Gardeners' World presenter Mark Lane welcomes the initiative, adding: "Regular engagement with gardening and nature offers so many advantages for health, and spring is a wonderful time to start experiencing them.

"After a tough winter, I'm delighted that Thrive is encouraging people, whatever their abilities, to try simple activities that can boost wellbeing."

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Lisa Joyner
Deputy Daily Editor, Country Living and House Beautiful

 Lisa Joyner is the Deputy Daily Editor at House Beautiful UK and Country Living UK, where she's busy writing about home and interiors, gardening, dog breeds, pets, health and wellbeing, countryside news, small space inspiration, and the hottest properties on the market. Previously, she has written for Conde Nast Traveller, House & Garden and Marie Claire magazine. Lisa studied at University For The Creative Arts, where she completed a BA in Fashion Journalism.