Workout your Mind and Body by Gardening!

Gardening not only relaxes your mind, it gives your body a pretty good workout, too. Hauling and spreading mulch and soil, moving plants and shrubs, and raking and digging will make you break a sweat and strengthen your muscles and bones at the same time. Reaching or bending to weed or plant is great for increasing your flexibility.

And who needs a treadmill when you’ve got a lawn mower (that’s a push mower, of course)? Not only can you burn some serious calories, you’ll get some fresh air and have a great-looking yard when you’re done. And you won’t have to go to the gym!

Each spring, novice and seasoned gardeners alike are lured outdoors by the promise of colorful blooms, carpets of lush green grass, sunshine, and fresh air. Studies show that being in nature – even looking at nature pictures – has a soothing effect on the mind and body, relieving stress and lowering blood pressure, according to Karin Fleming, a registered horticultural therapist.

Reaping What You Sow
Gardening has other advantages, too. Growing your own produce yields fresh fruit and vegetables for your summer meals. Planting a cutting garden supplies you with fresh-cut flowers to adorn your table. And a little bit of sunshine brightens your spirits and helps you soak up some healthy Vitamin D the natural way…

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Source: AARP.com

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