Discover all of the podcasts in our network, search for specific episodes, get the Optimal Living Daily workbook, and learn more at: OLDPodcast.com. Episode 2608: Leah Harvath's insightful article explores how gardening can be an effective alternative to traditional gym workouts. Not only does it offer a comprehensive physical exercise, targeting major muscle groups and burning significant calories, but it also provides fresh air, sunshine, and the added benefits of homegrown produce. Gardening fosters long-term commitment due to its enjoyable and purposeful nature, reducing stress and promoting overall well-being. Read along with the original article(s) here: https://andiethueson.com/why-gardening-is-good-for-your-health/ Quotes to ponder: "Gardening might just be the world’s best-kept exercise secret. It’s like going to the gym for free while beautifying your yard and growing delicious and healthy things to eat." "As a pleasurable and goal-oriented outdoor activity, gardening has another advantage over other forms of exercise: people are more likely to stick with it and do it often." "The group that gardened won hands-down as they reported being in a better mood than the group that read and they also exhibited lower levels of the stress hormone cortisol." Episode references: Horticultural Therapy: https://www.ahta.org/horticultural-therapy Center for Disease Control and Prevention: https://www.cdc.gov/physical-activity-basics/benefits/?CDC_AAref_Val=https://www.cdc.gov/physicalactivity/basics/pa-health/index.htm Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices