health benefits of gardening
June 16, 2009 by Denz · Leave a Comment
Gardening offers many benefits to those who are willing to at least try, whether you love gardens and gardening or you hate even the idea of lifting up a spade or getting the lawnmower out of the shed. This is an active living. It is a very popular physical activity throughout the world and offers the opportunity for lifelong participation, and can be a positive contributor to the natural environment.
To reap the maximum health benefits from your gardening use as little machinery as possible. Use manual clippers, trimmers and lawnmowers if possible. Try to stick to a regular garden exercise routine. Rather than saving up your outdoor work for one marathon weekend session, schedule at least 30-60 minutes of gardening two or three times per week if you can manage the time. If your away from home during the day working, early mornings (if you can get up) evenings and weekends are ideal gardening times.
Work at a steady, constant speed, but be sure to change positions every 10 minutes or so to avoid overusing a particular muscle group. If you start by bending down to pull weeds, stand to prune the hedges next. Also alternate which side of the body you use. Pull with your right hand, then with your left.
Remember to have fun while gardening and try not to treat it as a chore. Relax and remember your garden doesn’t have to be picture perfect all the time. Resolve to work more on the garden this year. Whether it’s a window box or a garden, you will be healthier for it. Plus you can grow vegetables for yourself or sell them at a local market to generate additional income.
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