Living with ADHD is like having a whirlwind inside your mind. The constant battle for focus, the struggle to stay organised, and the relentless restlessness are daily challenges. Medication and therapy did not actually help me. Not helping me find a way to live with my ADHD and be happy but its purpose was making living with ADHD bearable.  What I discovered on my personal journey was that gardening offered an unexpected and profoundly positive impact on managing my ADHD symptoms.

Enhanced Focus and Attention

 In the beginning, I found it hard to stay engaged in any one task for long. But as I began to care for my plants, I noticed something incredible happening. The act of tending to them demanded my complete attention. I had to be patient, nurturing, and consistent. Gardening helped me train my attention span. 

An Escape from Overwhelm

ADHD often comes with an overwhelming sense of chaos. For a long time I didn't want to go outside during the day because it was to overwhelming, taking a bus to work was a horror. The world feels like a jumble of thoughts noises, smells, feelings and tasks. Gardening became my sanctuary—a place where the only thing that mattered was the soil beneath my hands and the plants before me. It was a peaceful escape from the turbulence and chaos of my mind.

Nature's Therapeutic Embrace

One of the most immediate benefits I experienced was a reduction in stress levels. The rhythm of planting, watering, and caring for my garden had a calming effect on me. It was as if nature herself was soothing the storm within me. 

Patience has never been my strong suit, but gardening forced me to slow down. I had to wait for seeds to sprout, for buds to bloom, and for seasons to change. This gradual unfolding forced me to find peace in waiting and being Patience.

Mindfulness in Every Moment

ADHD often leads to impulsivity and racing thoughts. In the garden, however, I learned the power of being present. Observing the intricate details of a flower or the delicate dance of a butterfly became my form of meditation. Gardening became my mental reset button. When my thoughts spiraled out of control, I'd step into the garden. The smell of the earth, the rustling leaves, and the chirping birds grounded me in the here and now.

Gardening isn't just about plants; it's about life lessons. It taught me responsibility, problem-solving, and the importance of nurturing both myself and the world around me. These lessons have been pivotal in managing my ADHD.

In conclusion

My journey with ADHD led me to a place I never expected: the garden. It became more than a hobby; it became my therapy, my teacher, and my haven. Gardening helped me find solace, clarity, and growth amid the chaos of ADHD. If you're living with ADHD like I am, consider giving gardening a try. You might just find that, like me, you blossom in ways you never thought possible.