Gardening: Great for the Mind and Body, But Keep Safety in Mind

According to recent surveys, gardening has become the country’s number one outdoor leisure activity. This is great news because gardening is a fantastic way to engage in moderate, sustainable physical activity, offering numerous health benefits. Beyond the physical perks, gardening can also be therapeutic for worried minds, providing a boost to your mood and an overall sense of well-being.

Spending time outdoors and tending to various garden activities makes people feel good and helps reduce stress. However, the repetitive tasks involved, such as digging and weeding, can be tough on the body, particularly on the knees, hands, wrists, and shoulders.

For example, using a garden trowel can cause ulnar deviation, which leads to muscle strain and nerve pain in the wrist. Even tools marketed as “ergonomic” might not be as helpful as they claim. According to the Department of Occupational Therapy at the Medical University of Ohio, there are better ways to handle gardening tools and activities to minimize strain.

Here are some expert tips to keep in mind to make your gardening experience both enjoyable and safe:

• Choose Tools with Thick Handles: Tools like trowels should have handles with a diameter of 1 1/4 to 2 inches. Thicker handles are easier to grip and reduce strain on hands and wrists.
• Opt for Long Handles: Tools with long handles can help you avoid bending over too much, saving your back and knees from unnecessary strain.
• Select Sturdy and Lightweight Tools: It’s important to balance sturdiness and weight. Lightweight tools are easier to handle and reduce the risk of injury.
• Avoid Tools that Transfer Stress: Some tools have frames that keep the wrist straight, but this can force the wrist and elbow into awkward, potentially stressful positions. Using tools that allow for a natural, comfortable grip is better.

Experts caution gardeners against getting into the “zone” where they lose track of time. According to the Harvard Health Letter, repetitive motions and staying in one position too long can lead to muscle problems and aggravate arthritis. To prevent these issues, make sure to take regular breaks. Stop what you’re doing, stretch, sit in a lawn chair, and drink water.

Gardening is a wonderful way to connect with nature and enjoy some physical activity, but listening to your body and taking precautions is essential. By using the right tools and taking breaks, you can enjoy all the benefits of gardening without the risk of injury. Remember, a little care goes a long way in making your gardening experience pleasant and safe.