gave me an escape — not only from the world outside, but also from the one inside my head. When I’m stuck, irritated, or low, stepping out shifts my focus. Sometimes it’s gardening, sometimes photography, but it always works.
Morning Rituals
The first gift is simply getting out of bed. I don’t need to water early, but it fits my schedule better — and the day’s heat makes it smart. Coffee in one hand, hose in the other, I breathe fresh air. It’s a wonderful way to start the day. While watering, I scan for threats — weather or bugs — and this ritual keeps my mind calmer long after I head back to work. Watering feels therapeutic: ions swirl, bees hover, checking my progress.
Always something to Do
A rooftop garden never lets you sit idle. Leaves to clear, invaders to evict, branches to trim, bugs to identify. It beats watching TV — and unlike Netflix, it boosts your Vitamin D levels. Some plants are drama queens, throwing tantrums over water or sun, demanding attention. That focus pulls me from intrusive thoughts that creep in when my mind’s too quiet.
Community Roots
Gardening also connects me. Whether at garden centres or in online forums, I’ve found myself asking for advice, sharing victories, or comparing notes about stubborn plants. It’s a reminder that even in the city, I’m not alone.
A Taste of Ownership
And then there’s the harvest. Small as it may be — I’m still experimenting — every strawberry, chilli, or sprig of rosemary tastes fresher than anything supermarket shelves can offer. Sometimes it even pushes me into new recipes, new flavours, and new ways to share with family and friends. And yes, I’ll admit: it feels good to boast a little.
More than Hard Work
Is it hard? Some days. But overall, my rooftop has given me a new sense of wellbeing I never imagined when I moved from the countryside to the city centre. It’s joy, community, therapy, and yes… a water bill.
Reflection
I’ve shared what my rooftop garden gives me, does your garden offer lessons too? Drop your thoughts below—I’m curious to learn.
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