Overview

The Effortless Gardening Program is the only multimedia program available that helps avid gardeners tend to their bodies by identifying and overcoming movements that cause the body aches and strain. It is based on the Feldenkrais Method® of Movement Education, which uses awareness as the primary tool to regulate and coordinate movements.

Program Components

• $69.95 (plus tax and shipping/handling).
• Includes a 23-minute video, nearly 60 minutes of audio instruction and a comprehensive printed program guide.
• Can be ordered by calling toll free, 1.866.EZGARDEN (866.394.2733), or online at www.effortlessgardening.com.

Summary of Audiotape Coaching Sessions

• Side 1: Feldenkrais lesson Finding Your Hip Joints, and coaching on Pushing Equipment, such as a rototiller, wheelbarrow, or lawn mower.
• Side 2: Feldenkrais lesson Supporting Your Hands, and coaching on Using Long-Handled Tools, like shoveling, hand-tilling, raking, and hoeing.
• Side 3: Feldenkrais lesson Effortless Weeding, and coaching on Working Near the Ground, such as digging, planting, and weeding.
• Side 4: Feldenkrais lesson Effortless Squatting, and coaching on Working Bent Over and Lifting, including harvesting, planting, and mulching.

Key Benefits

Unlike many exercise and stretching programs, Effortless Gardening uses techniques that combine mental awareness with slight movement adjustments. When a person makes the same movement over and over, it can become a habit. Being aware of an incorrect movement and knowing how to improve it is essential for effective, lasting change.

Effortless Gardening offers several benefits that are unique to gardeners:

• Specialized for gardeners. Gardening requires specific muscle movements and repetitive motions. Effortless Gardening focuses on movements such as pruning, raking, digging, and the pain associated with them.
• Alleviates chronic pain. Many gardeners are passionate about their hobby and attempt to "work through" or ignore their pain. Others seek relief from alternative treatments if they are unable to resolve pain in traditional ways. Through awareness and relearning, Effortless Gardening participants can maintain or regain the active lifestyle they desire.
• Gentle approach versus rigorous training. While gardening offers cardiovascular benefits, Effortless Gardening is not a workout program. Effortless Gardening methods can be used while gardening, but the focus is applying the techniques to a person's specific movement needs and making slight behavioral or physical adjustments, as necessary.
• Value. Effortless Gardening is a cost-effective program that can improve a person's well being and alleviate pain and strain. Comparable fitness or self-help programs can cost in upwards of $100. Ongoing massage, chiropractic, physical therapy, or other medical treatments can cost thousands. The complete Effortless Gardening program is $69.95 (plus tax and shipping/handling).
• Non invasive, drug free. Conventional treatments for pain have focused on medical interventions such as drugs and surgery, often with limited success. Behavioral and relaxation therapies, in which Effortless Gardening is categorized, often enhance conventional treatments, or are effective on their own.