The sun is shining, the birds are singing and you have a gardening list as long as your arm. You're ready to get into it! But your lower back is not. Isn't it frustrating when we're keen but our body isn't. Then we feel like we have to make a choice - do I do what I love and pay the price later? Or do I refrain from doing anything that causes pain or discomfort?
'Tuning in' is key to mindful movement in the garden. It may make the gardening a little less structured, but will result in less soreness, stiffness and discomfort at the end of the day.
Like all strenuous physical activity, it's a good idea to warm-up for a day in the garden. Let's call it 'easing into it'.
Micro-movements are your friend! Micro-moving helps you to share the work around your body, giving some parts a rest while moving others.
Changing positions while you carry out a gardening task will distribute the movement more evenly throughout your body and can help lift your comfort level.
What you do on one side, do on the other. Practising symmetry will bring balance into your body, improving alignment and strengthening your weakest parts.
Set yourself up for success by using bolsters and aides to help you stay comfortable for longer.
When you start to feel uncomfortable, move to a job that requires you to move your body differently.
Tiredness, loss of concentration and discomfort can all be signs that it's time to take a beak. Paying attention to your body's signals will help you avoid 'overdoing' it in the garden.
The couch can be so tempting after a long day in the garden but couches often position us in ways that are less-than-optimal. Slowing down with movement will help you to feel less stiff and sore the next day.
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