December DFG Newsletter

REDUCE COLDS
The cold season is upon us and it is estimated that the average American gets 2 to 4 colds per year. A study in The American Journal of Medicine indicates that walking can reduce the chances of getting a cold. The theory is that walking increases disease fighting immune cells called leukocytes. It is also possible that exercise increases the levels of antibodies in saliva called IgA. A 30 minute walk each day can possibly reduce your risk of catching a cold.

EDUCATION
According to the old adage, ‘A little knowledge is a good thing” - or something close to that. It seems that people are enrolling in classes and programs to increase their knowledge of gardening. Enrollment in votech courses, formal degree programs and Master Gardener programs is on the rise. And there is no limit to the age range. Check out a course or degree today.

WINTER SUN
Sunlight is still very important this time of year. Shorter and colder days do not mean that we need to hibernate. Sunlight is key to good health. There is a natural absorption of Vitamin D from exposure to the sun, for as little as 5 minutes. Sunlight helps to set our circadian rhythm—the internal clock of the body. Sunlight also helps the body absorb calcium and can help to improve mood.

ACTIVE = HAPPY
So what does staying active have to do with improved mood? Well, the endorphins in our body are the natural feel good compounds that are released when we exercise. Other compounds in the body, such as serotonin, keep us from getting depressed. And, dopamine is released with exercise and keeps us motivated to exercise more. When you are gardening, your are concentrating on the tasks at hand and your mind gets a ‘time-out’ from your worries. Consequentially, you feel better and are more relaxed and gain a sense of peace.

GIFTS
One gift to consider giving during the holiday season is a seasonal plant. A house plant for someone to care for can be a much welcomed gift. Maybe a windowsill planter of herbs to use in cooking. Or a special flowering plant such as Amaryllis or Narcissus.

TREE FACTS
Did you know that office workers that have a view of nature tend to be more productive. They also have fewer illnesses and report a higher job satisfaction. If nature is so beneficial for employees—think what it can do for your view out of the windows of your home!

WINTER SOLTICE
Winter Solstice occurs at 1:08 AM (EST) on December 22. This is the shortest day and the longest night of the year. The word Solstice is Latin for “Sun still set in Winter.” Folklore has it that frost on this day indicates a severe winter. The good news is that, following the Solstice, the days start to get longer again.

HOUSEPLANTS
Indoor plants slow down their growth during the cooler season. Be sure to not over water. Most house plants like to go slightly dry between waterings. Be sure to reduce or stop fertilizing, also.

WINTER FRIENDS
Not all bird migrate for the winter. Cardinals, chickadees, finch and other birds stay around during the cooler months. Set a feeder out in the yard in a place where you can see it from inside. Be sure to select a feeder that is squirrel proof and is mounted at least 5 feet above the ground and away from the trees. Include a bird bath that has a heater, as birds still need a drink of water during the winter months.

On behalf of Nancy and Jack — we want to wish you a very special holiday and a great start for the New Year! Green is great in 2008!

“If we had no winter, the spring would not be so pleasant.”
Anne Bradstreet