Gardener’s Yoga: Bend & Stretch, Dig & Grow. Veronica D’Orazio, 2006. Sasquatch Books, 63 pages, 6.4” x 6.8”, $12.95 (paper).
Phew! I’ve been away from garden chores too long. Jumping into spring clean up after huddling inside through the worst of the winter weather has me sore. We all know that gardening puts a strain on our bodies; a productive outdoor work day can often be measured by the amount of stiffness it generates. And especially in spring when we’re rusty from winter “dormancy”, a good warm up before we get out and garden is imperative.
This is a short book with a total of 21 simple yoga poses—7 each for before, during and after gardening work. The author explains how each pose might stretch and warm muscles used for different activities, such as weeding, and might help us alleviate soreness and potentially prevent injury. This book can be used by just about anyone in preparation for any kind of physical activity as the poses are not complicated. Tim Foss’ botanically themed illustrations are a colorful and useful accompaniment.
Yoga and gardening together–what could be better?!
© Colleen Miko, 2012
