By Valerie Probstfeld
Managing Garden Overgrowth
I tend to my vegetable and flower garden every summer. This year my zucchini, tomato, and sunflowers seemed to dominate. The big prickly zucchini leaves and tomato vines wandered throughout the garden boxes. At first, they did quite well. However, as the season went on, the production of both the zucchini and tomato decreased. The garden appeared burned out and I had to troubleshoot.
When examining the garden, I noticed the zucchini leaves were blocking sunlight to the tomato vines. Support was needed to allow the tomatoes to thrive and receive more sun. The zucchini was also getting in its own way through overproduction. Its huge leaves required pruning so the fruits could receive adequate light as well. There were also weeds in the boxes that needed to be pulled.
Embracing Flexibility and Self-Care
Interestingly, my sunflowers physically moved towards the sun. This fascinating nature self-care phenomenon is referred to as “heliotropism.” Sunflowers’ circadian rhythm allows flexibility to move towards light. For example, young sunflowers track the sun by moving east to west throughout the day. This is done by the growth of the stem on the opposite side.
Our minds can grow weeds just like an overcrowded garden with thoughts that do not serve us well. These negative thoughts or mental tapes can shadow others that may grow underneath. Dr. Jill Bolte-Taylor suggests pulling out a “thought weed” if is not helping our garden.
The mind garden also requires regular self-care to receive adequate sunlight and nourishment. We may need to set boundaries to prevent overproduction and burnout. In addition, it can be helpful to ask for support or perform your own “heliotropism.” How can you allow more light or self-nourishment in your life today?
*If you have any questions or concerns regarding your health, please contact your healthcare provider.
988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline: https://988lifeline.org/
Anxiety and Depression Association of America (ADAA): https://adaa.org/
