Since the month of May is all about understanding that “Exercise is Medicine,” what better way to spend your day than outside in the fresh air with friends and family gardening!? Yes you heard right, gardening is a great physical activity that you can enjoy and benefit from in numerous ways! Use hoeing and raking to strengthen your upper body and core. Use the quadriceps and hamstrings in a proper squat when bending down to plant flowers. Don't forget to try some light stretches for your hamstrings and lower back . Another helpful tip is to take a few breaks throughout the day to drink some extra water and do some additional stretching! This month think of fun outdoor activities that you can participate in while at the same time completing your exercise for the day!
Another fun activity to organize with friends and family this month is spending an afternoon strawberry picking at our local Washington Farms in Athens-Watkinsville, GA.
After picking some delicious strawberries, try this amazing dip recipe! STRAWBERRY MANGO SALSA
Vegetarian and Gluten Free
Prep Time – 10 minutes
INGREDIENTS
- 1 cup diced strawberries
- 1 cup diced mango
- 1 cup diced avocado
- 1 small jalapeno, seeded and minced
- 2 tablespoons diced red onion
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh cilantro leaves
- 2 teaspoons honey, or more to taste
- Juice of 1 lime or 2 Tbsp lime juice
Mix all ingredients in bowl and enjoy with homemade pita chips or on top of a spinach salad!
Not only is gardening fruits and vegetables fun, but you can also enjoy the convenience of fresh herbs at home. Many love the accessibility of fresh herbs in the kitchen while cooking meals. Follow these easy, manageable steps to produce your own herbs in your very own kitchen:
- Find the best spot with as much natural light as possible
- Give indoor herbs good drainage
- Use typical indoor temperatures (65 to 75 degrees F)
Try any and all of these culinary herbs: Chives, Lemon Balm, Marjoram, Mint, Oregano, Rosemary, Sage, and Thyme
One of my favorite cookbooks, Southern My Way Food & Family, uses wonderful herbs in many of the delicious recipes.
Blessings, Caroline
"And the seed whose fruit is righteousness is sown in peace by those who make peace." James 3:18