1 |
Refuge and freedomMost of the respondents viewed their allotments as a form of refuge that gave them a sense of freedom, especially with the restrictions that forced the population to stay at home. |
‘I like this plot and I’m glad that I didn’t sell it, because then I wouldn’t have anywhere to go.’ |
2 |
Stress reduction and taking a mental breakVisiting one’s allotment garden reduced the stress of uncertainty related to the epidemiological situation. |
‘Whenever I’m in my allotment, I get a feeling of stability and normalcy, because this is where I can forget about what’s going on in the country and the rest of the world.’ |
3 |
Antidote to boredomAn allotment garden was a substitute for work. It provided a meaningful outdoor activity that was associated with good mental health and was an alternative to being productive. |
‘I’ve got nothing better to do due to the lockdown, so I go to my allotment. I’m lucky to have one, because otherwise I’d go mad staying inside my house.’ |
4 |
Physical exercise and staying in shapeAn allotment garden provided a means of maintaining physical activity (especially when forests, parks and sport and health facilities were closed down). |
‘Visiting my allotment lets me exercise, which is important for me as a senior. The moment you stop exercising, your body starts to ache and your mood drops.’ |
5 |
Enjoying family and social integrationAn allotment garden was a place where children could play and a place to meet with family and friends outdoors. |
‘We bought an allotment for twice the price, but we wanted our children to be able to go outside somewhere. It’s a form of investment. We’re not going to grow any produce, but we now have somewhere to go outside and set up a pool. It’s somewhere for the children to run around in. Our family and friends can also come and visit us here. It’s safer outside than at home, of course.’ |
6 |
Stability and purposeSpending time in an allotment garden and performing everyday chores and activities provided a sense of normalcy. |
‘I’ve had this plot for 20 years and, virus or no virus, I’m going to keep coming here, because this is literally my own piece of land.’ |