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2014 Autumn | Agriculture and Food Systems, Arts & Humanities, Education & Outreach, Sustainability

Gardening: A Perennial Pastime that Benefits Mind, Body, and Soul

Student(s):

Miranda Knight-Miles

Program or Department(s):

  • Program on the Environment
  • University of Washington

Site supervisor(s):

Kathy Krogslund

Partner(s):

  • University District Ppatch

Faculty advisor(s):

Eli Wheat, Program on the Environment, University of Washington

During my internship, 480 pounds of organic food was grown, harvested and donated to the local University District Food Bank. My responsibilities included overlooking multiple plots at the community Ppatch with the intention to grow and donate as much produce as possible to assist those in need within our community. I also conducted independent research, asking how gardening could contribute to an individuals’ health in nontangible aspects, entailing a search for more than physical benefits or food security associated with gardening. The search leads me to discover the mental and spiritual benefits, such as decreased depression and increased self-awareness.