Gardening has emerged as a cherished pastime, captivating nearly 40% of the UK population.
- A survey by Adobe Express reveals a growing trend in creative hobbies, with cooking and baking leading the way.
- Despite financial constraints, gardening remains a popular activity, particularly in cities like Sheffield and Norwich.
- Psychotherapist Sarah Lee highlights the mental and physical health benefits of engaging with nature through gardening.
- Time constraints and self-doubt are common barriers preventing people from taking up new hobbies.
Gardening has firmly established itself as a beloved hobby across the United Kingdom, with 38% of adults partaking in this green-fingered pursuit. According to a survey by Adobe Express, creative hobbies like cooking, baking, and gardening are popular among Brits, despite the financial challenges that cause some to forgo these activities. Cooking and baking take the top spot with 44% engagement, while gardening follows as a close second.
Financial constraints have not dampened the enthusiasm for gardening in some of the major UK cities. In Sheffield, over half of its residents (52%) are engaged in gardening, while Norwich follows with 49%. Leeds, Newcastle, and Liverpool also show significant participation in this hobby. These statistics point to a widespread appreciation for nurturing green spaces amid urban settings.
Psychotherapist Sarah Lee provides insight into why gardening is beneficial beyond its aesthetic allure. She explains that interacting with nature activates the parasympathetic nervous system, which induces a state of relaxation and reduces stress. Gardening offers numerous health benefits across various age groups, from lowering blood pressure and stress hormones in the elderly to providing essential vitamin D from sunlight exposure during the warmer months.
Despite the benefits, many are deterred from starting new hobbies due to time constraints. Adobe Express’s study highlights that 16% of Brits cite a lack of time as the primary reason for not engaging in creative activities like gardening. This is especially prevalent given research indicating Brits only have an average of 46 minutes of free time per day. Fear of inadequacy prevents 14% from trying new hobbies, showcasing the need for encouraging environments for budding hobbyists.
Experts suggest finding cost-effective ways to engage in hobbies, such as utilising everyday resources and adjusting daily routines to accommodate creative pursuits. For photography enthusiasts, low-cost exercises can include mobile phone photography and exploring free online resources. Carving out time from leisurely TV watching or social media scrolling could potentially enhance mental well-being and cognitive function.
Gardening continues to flourish as a popular hobby in the UK, with its benefits reaching far beyond mere leisure.
