self care
Plan your plot
Keep soil well-groomed and clear of tripping
hazards, such as hoses. Consider incorporating functional
hardscapes, like benches and paved paths. They’ll take up
space – less bare earth reduces maintenance – while making
your grounds easier to navigate, advises retired physical
therapist and certified master gardener Patricia Kolling.Protect your skin
Well-fitting garden gloves protect your skin from pricks and
cuts without adding pressure to joints. Look for a pair that
doesn’t strain across your knuckles when you make a fist, but
also has minimal excess fabric, says Kolling. Wear sunscreen,
long sleeves and pants, and solid, closed-toed shoes.Position properly
While digging, bend at the knees, keep your back mostly
straight, and make small, controlled motions instead of
stretching your arms far. This technique may reduce your
risk of back and joint pain, suggests a 2018 British study.Treat your knees kindly
Consider planting in pots or raised beds, so you can pull
up a seat. If you must kneel, use pads or benches and
treat yourself to a bench with arms to make getting up
and down easier. ■WORDS^ CINDYKUZMA^PHOTOGRAPHYGETTYIMAGESCultivate a lovely garden – minus
all the aches and stiffness – with
these ergonomic tweaks & tools
PAINS
GROWING
No more
100 NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2019 diabetic living