Hobbies like gardening are a great self-care outlet, offering a low-effort way to unwind and relax while enjoying an activity you love.
Spending time outdoors, surrounded by greenery and enjoying the sun, improves mood and promotes a sense of calm and happiness. Besides, a beautifully tended garden can instill a sense of accomplishment. Hey! You grew that!
We don’t gatekeep our gardening secrets! Here are some practical tips and suggestions to help make gardening more accessible and enjoyable as you age:
- Raise the garden beds
- Start small and simplify
- Use lightweight tools
- Stay hydrated
- Join group activities
- Keep safety in mind
No matter your age or fitness level, the labor of love that goes into gardening offers incredible rewards!
Gardens don’t just grow plants, they grow relationships. That’s why, whether they’re participating in curated garden projects or tending to individual planters, Kingston residents can find purpose and joy in their gardening experience.
Choose Raised Garden Beds
Physical activity doesn’t have to be intense or strenuous for you to reap its benefits. Moving your body can be as simple and enjoyable as gardening!
Gardening exercises a variety of muscle groups. Tasks like planting, weeding, and watering improve strength, flexibility, and coordination. Even light gardening activities help reduce the risk of injuries, improve circulation, and provide healthy doses of vitamin D, thanks to the Santa Fe sunshine (don’t forget your sun protection)!
However, don’t be afraid to modify your workspace to make gardening easier on your body.
Raised garden beds, for example, are perfect for those who want to avoid the physical strain of bending over. They allow for easier planting, watering, and harvesting while also improving soil drainage. Not to mention, they add a touch of structure and organization to your outdoor space!
Start Small & Simplify
You don’t need sprawling gardens to enjoy the benefits of gardening. Making an impact takes time, so don’t get discouraged.
Begin with small, manageable projects like a container garden filled with herbs, lettuce, or flowers. Take advantage of Santa Fe’s local nurseries! These offer an excellent selection of plants tailored to the local climate, helping you cultivate a successful gardening season.
Thanks to Santa Fe’s climate, you can successfully grow vegetables and herbs in your garden, improving your (or your community’s) access to fresh, nutritious produce.
Consider low-maintenance plants like succulents or native New Mexico species that require less attention. Local favorites include the drought-tolerant blue grama grass and striking yucca plants.
Use Lightweight Tools
The right tools can make a noticeable difference!
Invest in ergonomic gardening tools, which are specially designed to reduce strain on your hands and joints. Lightweight, easy-grip options are available at most garden centers in Santa Fe, and tools with extended handles are great for reaching without overexertion.
While tending to your garden, don’t forget to look after your physical health too!
Stay Hydrated
Gardening under the Santa Fe sun means hydration (and sun protection) is a must for yourself and your plants!
Be strategic about your watering schedule. Water your plants during the day’s cooler hours (early morning or early evening) to prevent evaporation and reduce water usage. Meanwhile, don’t forget to take plenty of water breaks to stay refreshed!
Join Group Activities
Gardening can be a solitary escape, but it can also bring people together.
Bonding over shared interests, like gardening itself, is a great way to get the conversation going, meet new people, and make new friends.
Joining a gardening event, participating in local activities, or moving to a community like Kingston Residence of Santa Fe (which organizes group projects, gardening workshops, and community garden initiatives) are all great ways to stay socially active.
Connecting with fellow gardeners can be as simple as sharing tips, photos, and stories!
Keep Safety in Mind
Wear garden gloves to protect your hands, a wide-brimmed hat to shield your face, and SPF sunscreen to guard against the intensity of Santa Fe’s sunlight.
Place stools or benches near garden areas so you can rest when needed, and don’t forget to take breaks! Finding your gardening groove is heavenly, but don’t forget to prioritize your safety, health, and overall well-being.
Grow Vibrantly in Community Living
Gardening can easily become part of your lifestyle. It’s a way to connect with nature, build meaningful relationships, and enjoy the simple pleasures of nurturing life.
At Kingston Residence of Santa Fe, it’s part of our mission to foster joy through activities our residents love and value.
Here, residents have access to a dynamic and supportive environment where hobbies thrive without the hassles of ongoing upkeep. Whether they’re a seasoned gardener or just dipping their toes into it, our team supports our residents with the necessary tools and encouragement to continue doing what they love!
Connect with our team to schedule a tour of our senior living community and discover how we cultivate a supportive environment for our residents to flourish.
