Is gardening an extreme sport?

The litany of aches and pains it produces makes it seem so.

Scientists have, of course, discovered the bacterium in the soil, which promotes happiness. Mycobacterium vaccae. A muddier version of Prozac. Thus confirming what we all know to be true. Working the ground in our gardens brings deep pleasure; but does this explain why we push our bodies more than we should. Gardening can produce pain. Our backs, necks, knees, and shoulders are subservient to the need to weed, pull out brambles, plant out lettuces and trim tomato plants.

TIPS: When you get lost in a task, try not to override your body’s need to rest. Even if you’re mid-job, stop every half hour. Straighten up and do some gentle stretches. Drink some water or make a cup of tea. Take some deep breaths and enjoy the birdsong. A research study by Exeter University concluded that “people surrounded by birdsong had improved mental health”. There you go!

Backs don’t enjoy sustained bending and sooner or later will let you know. If you’re kneeling, make sure you’re not leaning forwards for too long. Vary which hand you use. If you’re digging, keep the spade close and use alternate legs. When you finish, lie down with your knees bent up. Use your hands to bring each knee up in turn, wrap them around your knees; hug your knees together towards your chest. For a minute or so. Gently. If it gives you any pain, stop. Then go outside and smell the flowers!