We are having a beautiful spring this year- everything seems very green and I think the plants are a bit ahead of schedule. While I may not be able to give you gardening advice, I certainly can help you stay healthy as you work in your garden.
Plan your work day. In NS, our weather can be quite changeable, so sometimes we feel as though we only have one nice day in which to get all our work done. If you can plan the work that needs to be done so that you are varying your activity and position, you will be protecting yourself from injury, especially overuse injuries.
S-s-s-t-t-r-e-t-c-h. Gardening is a physical activity, so limber up before you head outdoors. A few simple exercises such as leaning to the side each side and a brisk walk around the block will loosen up your muscles. The Canadian Chiropractic Association has a helpful brochure- Plant and Rake without the ache.
Vary your position. It is worth repeating- do not stay in one position as you work. Bring a cushion or kneeler with you; as you change jobs, change position. Do not spend an afternoon bent forward at the waist- it places too much force through the low back and stress on the lumbar discs.
And, if, despite your best efforts, you do develop some pain, get it checked out rather then suffer through it. You ask for advice at the garden centre, why not check with chiropractors Glen Huntly to determine if you have a problem that could be helped by chiropractic care.
