January 12th

By Mutt Mulligan

Feeling down? Getting dirty could help!

If you’re feeling a little down lately, you’re not alone. “Blue Monday” is the term used to describe the third Monday in January, which is said to be the most depressing day of the year. It’s supposedly a perfect storm of gloomy winter weather, holiday debt, a return to work after a break from the holidays, and abandoned New Year resolutions.

But the good news is that the cure for the blues – any time of year – could actually be in your own backyard! According to research, soil may be the new Prozac.

Turns out that mycobacterium vaccae in soil mirrors the effect on neurons that drugs like Prozac provide. The bacterium stimulates serotonin production, which makes you feel more relaxed and happier.

So next time you’re feeling a little down, head out to your backyard for a hefty dose of Vitamin N(ature). According to research, just walking in the outdoors or digging in dirt to do plantings or weeding can have a positive impact.

To learn more about how to cultivate living landscapes in your backyard, even in a drought, click here.