Banking on Gardening
The recession of 2008 led to high price hikes in staples, fruits, vegetables and their transportation costs. This led many who enjoyed eating organics to start their own home-gardens. The act of gardening itself can help in restoring our system clocks to the basic rhythm of life. In our fast food nation, gardening offers us reminders life's essentials: food , water, warmth, attention and room to grow.
- Being outdoors in the sunlight itself can be restorative (there is an intricate biofeedback loop between melatonin and our moods).
- Wear appropriate dress, a hat and sunscreen SPF 15 or higher, while out gardening to protect your skin.
- Get properly vaccinated with a Tetanus booster to avoid any preventable infection.
- Protect yourself from diseases caused by mosquitoes and ticks by using insect repellent containing DEET.
- Keep harmful fertilizers, chemicals, tools, and equipment out of children's reach.
- The acts of planting seeds and tending plants can aid in restoring balance and perspective in our stress-filled lives.
- Growing when compared to buying organic at the supermarket is pennies on the dollar.
- To ensure savings as a backyard gardener, stick to the basic tools and supplies while keeping a tight rein on the temptation to own all the newest gadgets.
- For starters, try a herb garden. One plant each can produce all the parsley, dill, thyme, basil and oregano you need for months on end.
