I was told the other day that GMTV ran a feature on Monday about the mood enhancing effects of soil. I was dubious, but apparently we somehow absorb good ‘stuff’ through our skin and this makes us feel better.
I was happy to see that the research has been highlighted in a BBC article ‘Dirt exposure ‘boosts happiness”. Apparently bacteria found in soil can affect serotonin levels. Serotonin is the neurotranmitter which many antidepressants work upon..
The Sunday Times also carry a report entitled ‘Health and happiness is all down to a roll in the dirt’ Difficult to argue with I’m sure you’ll agree.. The article explores the link between positive mental health and a healthy immune system and dirt…
The research will be published in the academic journal, Neuroscience this week…
Therefore a perfect excuse for when people point out to me I have grubby fingernails again…
Keener
Love this!! I’ve started getting my hands dirty now too. It’s looking like we aren’t going to get anymore freezing temperatures so we’ve taken the plunge…started planting just a few things that are a little hardier.
I’ve noticed this: the days when i work on the garden (not necessarily in it, as i do much of my potting and transplanting/pricking out in the kitchen) i definetly feel happier. its great isn’t it?
keth
xx
Bathing and changing field clothes only once a week (in time for the Saturday farmers’ market) seems to have heighten the dirt effect for me. I’ve been dirty and cheerful for the last four years! 🙂
cheers guys!! Glad to hear others can verify the dirt effect…
Gianna – good luck with the planting… and I hope that the dirt aids you in your continued recovery.. I am tempted to have bowls of dirt placed strategically around the house …
keener