As temperatures climb, the attention to the exterior of our homes also increases.  Mulching, gardening, flower bedding, mowing, edging, etc are new activities again as we emerge from a more idle winter season.

We all know that these tasks are physically demanding, but we usually don't think to 'warm up' or stretch before and after we perform these tasks.

So how can we take care of ourselves as we perform our outdoor activities?

• Start out by doing some gentle neck, shoulder, arm and ankle circles.
• Loosing the low back area, (while sitting or standing) by pulling your knee toward the chest. Repeat other side.
• While standing; bend the knee while bring the foot behind you. Grab your foot and press it into the palm of hand. Repeat other side.
• While standing; raise arms above the head and lean to right and left, then bring arms forward and behind you. Repeat leaning to right and left.
• Find a doorway, bring right foot flexed (toes up) against the door jam. With soft knee, relaxed foot, lean your body weight forward. You should feel a stretch in hamstrings and calf of right leg. Hold for 10 sec, switch to left foot.

Repeat these general stretches during and after your outdoor duties.

Remember to drink plenty of water, which will replace fluids lost from sweating.

To further prevent soreness:  take a Epson salt bath and receive a full body massage to help the body rest, repair and recover.

Living in the Midwest and not engaging in these activities year around; it is wise to take a moment to prepare our bodies for the ensuing task and take care of it after it's hard work is done. The above tips can prevent injury and bring success to your green thumb activities.


Cheryl Middaugh is  Owner and Massage Therapist of Healing Key Wellness Center. Her background includes various relaxation and therapeutic massage modalities, personal training, biochemistry, enzyme nutrition and health sciences. In her spare time, Cheryl enjoys ballroom dancing, cycling and time with loved ones. Book an appointment with Cheryl at www.healingkey.com or 317.973.0329

Healing Key Wellness Center
1717 W. 86th St. Ste 110
Indianapolis, IN 46260