Health

Health Benefits of Working in Agriculture

Michelle

For thousands of years, spanning across many cultures, traditions and religions, there has been a recognition for the role of nature within health and wellbeing. With advances in technology, land conversions and pollution, some believe we have never been less connected to nature and our environment.

“As we get older, we need to pay more attention to all aspects of our health. We must actively work to encourage quality of life in our older communities, amongst people with learning difficulties and those living with physical and/or mental health problems. It is well recognised that “successful aging and longevity are built upon patterns of lifelong learning” (Jacquelyn James, Director of research at the Sloan Center on Aging & Work).

Here at Dale Farm, we are trying to get back to our roots (pardon the pun)!

We are ready to get our hands dirty and our boots muddy in order to maintain and promote the happy community which we have sown and grown.

With scientific advances, there are growing bodies of research into holistic approaches to health and wellbeing. Numerous studies have demonstrated the significance which nature plays in human physical, emotional and social wellbeing.

Mood-boosting hormones are maintained by practicing gratitude. By undertaking projects such as the John Muir Award, we are encouraged to explore, conserve and share the experience being amongst our beautiful environments. By learning to appreciate what we can do with our hands, our happiness increases.

Gardening brings us together. Communally sharing the experiences available whilst working on our farm helps the Dale Farm family to learn from one another. This improves our communication skills and promote social inclusion through working as a team. This acquisition of new skills in a supportive environment promotes active learning, the development of friendships and mental fitness.

Extra reading:
Read more at Gardening Know How: Antidepressant Microbes In Soil: How Dirt Makes You Happy https://www.gardeningknowhow.com/garden-how-to/soil-fertilizers/antidepressant-microbes-soil.htm

Why Learning Leads To Happiness. Philip Moeller. Retrieved from: https://www.huffpost.com/entry/learning-happiness_n_1415568