A recent study on urban gardening highlighted its significance in promoting mental well-being. Participants reported feelings of serenity and satisfaction, contrasting with their usual busy lifestyles. The act of nurturing plants not only provided a physical activity but also fostered a sense of community among gardeners. The researchers emphasized that engaging in such activities could serve as a form of therapy, offering emotional respite and a constructive outlet for stress.
Within this context, the term 'respite' in the passage most closely means: