Level 3 whitewater rafting used to my edge, but the older I get, just edging my garden seems dangerous, and even my old elbow pads and knee guards don't always protect me from the treacherous ups, downs, twists and turns of pulling up rapidly growing dandelions. Effortless Gardening briefly introduces some practical gardening tips and techniques for us weed-warriors, lists typical do's and don't's while working in the yard, and touches on ways to reduce muscle fatigue and pain usually associated with a wide variety of gardening tasks. Based on the Feldenkrais Method (an exercise regimen built around small gentle movements that enhance the communication between mind/body systems), the program briefly demonstrates the best ways to weed, shovel, lift, dig, use a wheelbarrow and prune trees. Obviously, the idea here is to “coach” the audience while they are gardening, but unless you've got a VHS player attached to your bum, the much more portable audio tapes (150 minutes total) are the real focus of this multimedia set. The audio tape I listened to, entitled “Finding Your Hip Joint,” features the familiar disembodied voice gently guiding the listener through a relaxation session in which the elusive hip joint is ultimately discovered, as well as a section entitled “Using Long-Handled Tools,” coaching the listener on proper shoveling, hand-tilling and hoeing technique. Sporting mediocre production values, this safe gardening course does serve up some common sense tips for avoiding painful repetitive injury, but--especially considering the high price for a health/motivational titles--this is an optional purchase, at best. Aud: P. (N. Plympton)
Effortless Gardening
(2001) 23 min. $69.95 (includes 2 audiocassettes, booklet). Effortless Action (866-394-2733; <a href="http://www.effortlessgardening.com/">www.effortlessgardening.com</a>). PPR. Color cover. September 9, 2002
Effortless Gardening
Star Ratings
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