JJ Chalmers, former Royal Marine, multi-medal-winning Invictus Games athlete and Strictly Come Dancing contestant, reveals how gardening has been part of his healing process after life-changing injuries, suffered while on patrol in Afghanistan in 2011.

He shares how it helps him and his family connect with nature, how he overcomes physical challenges that are the lasting legacy of his injuries, and why he thinks gardening can benefit us all. JJ discusses the mental health benefits of gardening and how, after working as a teacher in some deprived areas, he’s observed that it could help more young men and women through their own tough times. Above all, he shares the joy that his garden gives him, sharing it with his young family and passing on to them his lifelong love of being outdoors.

This podcast touches on mental health issues, so if you are affected by any of the content, you can find good resources to support you at NHS Every Mind Matters (www.nhs.uk/every-mind-matters/). And you can contact the Samaritans on 0116 123 for free in the UK, or visit www.samaritans.org

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Gardening for wellbeing with JJ Chalmers