Body & Mind: Flower Power

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Gardening is also an excellent tool for physical rehabilitation because it uses large and small muscles and fine and gross motor skills. Linda Ciccantelli, who founded the HT program at Magee Rehabilitation Hospital in Philadelphia, works in the hospital's lush rooftop greenhouse with patients who have suffered spinal-cord and head injuries as well as strokes. "When people have a devastating illness, you try to tap into something they want to do," she says. "I have seen standing tolerances improve while people are planting. When you are in the flow of an activity, you aren't as aware of your pain. Gardening helps our patients focus on the ability, not their disability."

Like any other activity, gardening has its hazards as well. Health experts advise wearing sunscreen, keeping a water bottle on hand to stay hydrated, and exercising caution when attempting any heavy lifting.