Unfortunately, this is not the time of year for this, but gardening proves to be a cure for those recovering from cancer. In the Netherlands, there have been experiments with garden projects where cancer patients put a shovel in the ground together.
During and after cancer treatment, many people have to deal with complaints that affect quality of life, such as fatigue, forgetfulness or depression. Previous research has shown that those who adjust their lifestyle by doing more exercise and eating healthy food usually have fewer problems. However, this does not convince many people to make this switch. Gardening can then be the perfect starting point for some exercise.
At Wageningen University, they wanted to scientifically investigate this route through the Healing Gardens Experimental Project. In addition, (former) cancer patients had the opportunity to plant in a public garden for a season under supervision. This pilot was an instant hit. As a result, the participants automatically became more energetic and energetic, and also enjoyed communicating with fellow sufferers. They shared their horticultural experiences but were also able to talk about their treatments. By being outside, they absorb more sunlight and vitamin D. Surprisingly, the researchers found that people also naturally started eating more fruits and vegetables. By growing vegetables and fruits themselves, their eating pattern also underwent a slight transformation.
The idea has now also been embraced by Toon Hermans’ home in Ede, which operates as an open center for cancer patients. In this “display garden,” volunteers and patients have successfully maintained a botanical garden for two years now. These projects will soon be expanded to include other homes. Such garden projects do not exist in our country yet.
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Cancer patients (former ones) are often too tired to change their lifestyle or get more exercise. After all, cancer and its treatments are very demanding, both mentally and physically. A new follow-up study is currently being conducted at Wageningen University in people who have recovered from colon cancer to see which techniques can best assist with such a permanent lifestyle change. He also wants to know if a healthy lifestyle effectively treats chronic fatigue. Change has to happen in small steps and it is important for people to do something that works for them. For those who enjoy the outdoors, gardening can be a better option than exercising in the gym.
During and after cancer treatment, many people have to deal with complaints that affect quality of life, such as fatigue, forgetfulness or depression. Previous research has shown that those who adjust their lifestyle by doing more exercise and eating healthy food usually have fewer problems. However, this does not convince many people to make this switch. Gardening can then be the perfect starting point for some exercise. At Wageningen University, they wanted to scientifically investigate this route through the Healing Gardens Experimental Project. In addition, (former) cancer patients had the opportunity to plant in a public garden for a season under supervision. This pilot was an instant hit. As a result, the participants automatically became more energetic and energetic, and also enjoyed communicating with fellow sufferers. They shared their horticultural experiences but were also able to talk about their treatments. By being outside, they absorb more sunlight and vitamin D. Surprisingly, the researchers found that people also naturally started eating more fruits and vegetables. By growing vegetables and fruits themselves, their eating pattern also underwent a slight transformation. The idea has now also been embraced by Toon Hermans’ home in Ede, which operates as an open center for cancer patients. In this “display garden,” volunteers and patients have successfully maintained a botanical garden for two years now. These projects will soon be expanded to include other homes. Such garden projects do not exist in our country yet. Cancer patients (former ones) are often too tired to change their lifestyle or get more exercise. After all, cancer and its treatments are very demanding, both mentally and physically. A new follow-up study is currently being conducted at Wageningen University in people who have recovered from colon cancer to see which techniques can best assist with such a permanent lifestyle change. He also wants to know if a healthy lifestyle effectively treats chronic fatigue. Change has to happen in small steps and it is important for people to do something that works for them. For those who enjoy the outdoors, gardening can be a better option than exercising in the gym.
