Spring is in the air, though those living in Western Canada may beg to differ, as one last snow storm blankets much of that region.  Here are a few tips to enjoy a favourite time of year, especially for gardeners:

Move and stretch:

• Take a 10 – 15 minute walk around your garden/lawn as you plan your day, lifting your knees and swinging your arms to get the blood flowing.
• Try doing side bends, by extending one arm over your head by bending from the waist. Hold for 15 seconds and repeat on the other side.
• Stretch your quads, by bending your right knee and hold your ankle with your left hand. Hold for 15 seconds and repeat on the other side.
• Stretch your hamstrings, by reaching your hands up while bending at the waist and reach for your toes.  Hold for 15 seconds and repeat on the other side.
• To stretch your wrists, hold one arm in front palm down. Bend your wrist until your fingers point to the ground.  Place your hands in a prayer position while pressing your palms together. Release, but keep your arms straight and hand in a ‘stop’ position.
• For your upper body, let your arms hang loose and rotate your shoulders forward, then rotate back.  Hug yourself snugly, and rotate at your waist to your comfort level
• For your back, keep in a seated position while bending from the waist and let your head fall down

Lifting:

• Before lifting something heavy, get close to the object.  Stand shoulder-width apart, heads up, with your feet and body in the same direction
• Use your leg and arm muscles to slowly lift/lower the load.
• Pivot on your heels/feet, and don’t twist.
• Don’t lift heavy objects above your waist.
• Get some help with heavy loads.

Miscellaneous:

• Use knee pads to decrease the pressure on your knees while you plant.
• Rake easier by keeping one leg in front of the other.
• Change your position often, to avoid strain and fatigue.
• Change the position of your hands.
• Alternate heavy loads with light ones to make the chores easier.