Are you looking for a way to connect to the outdoors while getting a little exercise? If so, there’s nothing better than beginning your own organic gardening journey. Whether you have a small city balcony or a large rural backyard, the joys of gardening can bring you closer to nature and help you appreciate simple living. Here are just a few of the many benefits of finding joy in the activity of gardening.

The joy of being in nature. There’s something peaceful and calming about being in nature, and gardening is a great way to get in touch with that natural vibe. Gardening can provide an outlet for stress, as the focus is often on simply being rather than getting caught up in the hustle and bustle of life. Immersing yourself in nature can often provide a creative outlet and help remind us to appreciate the smaller things in life.

The joy of growing your own food. Nothing beats the taste of farm-fresh produce that you’ve grown yourself! Gardening provides the opportunity to learn about different types of plants, fruits and vegetables and the experience of watching a plant grow and develop from seed to harvest. And of course, the added perk of knowing exactly what kind of pesticides and fertilizers — if any — you’ve used with your plants can give you peace of mind when it comes to what you’re eating and serving your family or friends.

The joy of physical activity. Gardening can be a great form of exercise, even if you’re on a small balcony or terrace. Planting, weeding, digging and pruning are all excellent forms of low-impact exercise that can give you the opportunity to move your body without putting too much strain on it, which makes it an excellent choice for all ages.

The joy of bringing beauty to your home. There’s nothing quite like a vibrant garden to bring a touch of life to your space. With the right combination of flowers, foliage, and fruit-bearing plants, you can create a beautiful, welcoming and inviting atmosphere that adds life and color to your home’s exterior and can even improve the view from your windows or balcony.

Gardening is a wonderful way to get in touch with nature, to stay active, and to add beauty to your home. Not to mention all the delicious produce you get to enjoy when your garden is in full bloom. So if you’re looking for a way to embrace simple living and reap the joys of gardening, now’s the perfect time to get started.