05-27-21
Let’s Celebrate National Gardening and Exercise Day
Each month holds a plethora of holidays. Some of which are widely known and celebrated, but there are many that may fly under our radar. For example, have you ever heard of National Gardening and Exercise Day? Yes, this is a real holiday and it’s actually happening very soon! June 6th to be exact.
All the gardeners out there already know how great this hobby can be for getting in your daily exercise. In fact, it is estimated that gardening can burn just as many calories as going to the gym. The combination of strength, cardio, and flexibility means it is a great way to get your daily workout in.
But, did you know that both gardening and exercise are good for your gut health too? It’s true! Here’s a quick overview.
Gardening for Your Gut
It’s a well-known fact that our environment has a direct impact on our gut microbiome. All the different microorganisms we come in contact with during our day-to-day lives can change the composition of our gut microbiome. And one of the best ways to expose yourself to a large variety of microorganisms is by gardening. In fact, it is estimated that soil is 90% more diverse!
Exercising for Your Gut
We all know that exercising regularly is good for our overall health, but it turns out it can be beneficial to our gut microbiome as well. Studies show that exercise actually adjusts the balance of our ever-important gut microbiome. These studies are finding that exercise can enhance the microbiome and microflora diversity and improve the development of the bacteria found in the mouth, as known as commensal bacteria.
It truly is amazing what a little time in the garden can do! With so many benefits for our gut health, it only makes sense that you would want to make the most out of your time in the garden. Here are a few easy ways to make your gardening routine more of a workout.
- Stretch before you head outside to help avoid unnecessary strain or injury.
- Use both sides equally by switching between your right and left hands. Otherwise, you will end up with one arm that is substantially stronger than the other.
- Be conscious of your form while moving around in the garden. Make sure to lift with your legs, bend at the knees, and use long-handled tools when necessary.
- Go “old-school” by using manual tools instead of automatic ones. You’ll definitely get a better workout with that old push mower.
We hope you will join us in celebrating National Gardening and Exercise Day on June 6th! Post a photo of yourself either gardening or exercising on Facebook, Instagram, or Twitter. Tag us with @NewEarthCo and use the hashtag #NewEarthLife so we can repost and share your adventures as well!