Introduction:

Regular physical activity can play a key role in reducing the risk of several health problems. Landscape gardening is an excellent alternative to traditional forms of exercise because it combines fitness with the enjoyment of working with plants and the landscape.

Gardening for Health and Wellness Programs are designed to provide information on how regular garden exercise can address the following areas:

Heart Disease, Blood Pressure, Stroke, Strength & Range of Motion, Type II Diabetes, Osteoporosis, Skin Cancer, Dehydration, Diet and Nutrition and so much more…

Not only will these activities assist in creating a healthy and sustainable landscape they will help create a healthy and sustainable YOU!

By Mayo Clinic Staff Jun 5, 2007 © 1998-2008 Mayo Foundation for Medical Education and Research (MFMER). All rights reserved.

Reprinted by Permission

Stretching: Focus on flexibility

Stretching is a powerful part of any exercise program. Here's why — and how — to include stretching in your garden fitness routine. Read More...


Weight Loss and Garden Exercise

One of the best ways to change old eating and exercise habits — and support healthy weight loss — is to keep track of them with a diary. Read More...


Protect Yourself from the Sun

Sunburns are caused by exposure to too much ultraviolet (UV) light. UV radiation is a wavelength of sunlight in a range too short for the human eye to see. Read More...


High Blood Pressure and Gardening

High blood pressure and exercise are closely related. Learn how small changes in your daily routine can make a difference. Read More...


Osteroporosis

Osteoporosis, which means "porous bones," causes bones to become weak and brittle — so brittle that even mild stresses like bending over, lifting a vacuum cleaner or coughing can cause a fracture. In most cases, bones weaken when you have low levels of calcium, phosphorus and other minerals in your bones. Read More...


Dehydration
Water is essential to good health, but each person requires a different amount. These guidelines can help ensure you drink enough fluids while participating in gardening activities. Read More...


Type 2 Diabetes
Type 2 diabetes, once known as adult-on- set or noninsulin-dependent diabetes, is a chronic condition that affects the way your body metabolizes sugar (glucose), your body’s main source of fuel. Type 2 diabetes is often preventable, but the condition is on the rise — fueled largely by the current obesity epidemic. Read More...