Did you know that gardening is an excellent way to stay active, even in winter?
It’s true—those small, repetitive movements like pruning, clearing debris, and prepping your soil are great for your body while also giving your garden some TLC.
It’s like a workout... but with a better view! 🌿

The Physical Perks of Gardening
Gardening helps with:
💪 Strength: Think of digging and lifting as natural resistance training.
❤️ Cardio: Clearing debris or raking leaves can get your heart pumping.
🤸♀️ Flexibility: Stretching to prune those high branches keeps you limber.
And let’s not forget the emotional boost—connecting with nature can do wonders for your mood.
Winter Gardening Tips to Stay Active
Even if it’s chilly outside, you can keep moving:
🌱 Prune dormant trees and shrubs.
🌱 Rake leaves or clear out old plant debris.
🌱 Prepare your soil for spring by adding compost or organic matter.
Warm-Up Routine for Gardeners
Prevent injuries by warming up before you start:
Neck Rolls: Gently roll your head in circles to loosen tension.
Arm Circles: Swing your arms forward and backward for 30 seconds.
Squats: Do 10-15 bodyweight squats to activate your legs and core.
Wrist Stretches: Hold each stretch for 15 seconds to protect your hands and wrists.
Taking just 5 minutes to warm up can make all the difference!
Recipe of the Week: Warm Kale and Sweet Potato Salad

After a rewarding day in the garden, refuel with this delicious and nutrient-packed salad:
2 medium sweet potatoes, peeled and cut into ½-inch chunks
1 tablespoon olive oil
5-6 cups stemmed kale, chopped
¼ red onion, thinly sliced
¼ cup chopped walnuts
3 ounces goat cheese, crumbled
Salt and pepper to taste
For the Orange Maple Dressing:
3 tablespoons olive oil
Zest and juice of one orange
1½ tablespoons pure maple syrup
1 teaspoon salt
¼ teaspoon cinnamon (optional)
Instructions:
Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
Toss the sweet potato chunks with 1 tablespoon olive oil, salt, and pepper. Spread them on a baking sheet in a single layer and roast for 30-45 minutes until tender, tossing once or twice during cooking.
In a large bowl, add the chopped kale along with a few drops of olive oil and a pinch of salt. Massage the olive oil into the kale with your hands for a few minutes until it becomes dark and softened.
To prepare the dressing, combine 3 tablespoons olive oil, orange juice and zest, maple syrup, salt, and cinnamon (if using) in a small jar. Seal tightly and shake until well combined.
Once the sweet potatoes are done, let them cool slightly. Then, in the large bowl with the massaged kale, add the roasted sweet potatoes, sliced red onion, chopped walnuts, and crumbled goat cheese.
Drizzle the orange maple dressing over the salad and toss to coat evenly. Serve warm.
Enjoy this hearty and healthy salad as a perfect complement to your gardening activities!
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