2024 - Not Alone
Category
Daylight Investigations - Region 2: Eastern Europe and the Middle East
Students
Sandija Vasiļjeva
Teacher
Efe Duyan
School
EKA University of Applied Sciences
Country
Latvia
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The rise of digital technology and social media, accelerated by the COVID-19 pandemic, has further enhanced the phenomenon of antisocial behaviour. Urbanisation and the fast-paced lifestyles of modern cities can lead to a sense of anonymity and detachment. This can lead to feelings of loneliness, which can have serious implications for both mental and physical health, contributing to conditions such as anxiety, heart disease and even early mortality. Gardening has emerged as a powerful antidote to loneliness, providing a therapeutic and fulfilling activity that can bridge the gap between isolation and connection. Caring for plants requires regular attention and care that makes you live in the moment and promotes a sense of purpose and responsibility. The act of planting, weeding, watering and harvesting requires focus and patience, which helps to distract the mind from negative thoughts and anxiety. This immersion in nature and the physical engagement of gardening can reduce stress levels, promote relaxation and improve overall mental wellbeing. In today’s fast-paced world, finding time to water a garden every day can be a significant challenge for many people. The demands of work, family and other responsibilities often leave little time for regular garden maintenance, including the vital task of watering plants. For many older people, gardening is a valued activity that provides physical, emotional and social benefits. However, a number of challenges can make it difficult for them to engage in gardening on a daily basis, for example, many may no longer be able to drive due to age-related impairments, or after the loss of a spouse, lack of assistance can further affect their ability to maintain their gardens. This watering system is designed to help people maintain their gardens effortlessly, by making sure your garden is watered for you, especially during the hot summer months. It senses the sun’s rays and activates at the end of the day, ensuring that plants are watered at the optimum time. Watering plants during the cooler parts of the day prevents water loss through evaporation and ensures that plants absorb the maximum amount of moisture – all that is required is a weekly water refill, a much easier task than daily watering, allowing gardeners to solve their biggest problem and keep their gardens thriving.