Working on cars, building boxes and digging 10 potatoes is not cardio.

I think thee are probably 101 car mechanics, joiners and gardeners who would disagree with you! Anything physical can and often will increase your heart rate. A decent medical practitioner will tell you that any form of exercise can and will increase your heart rate - And if you can increase it a little for a long tine it is better than short bursts of high intensity.

MikeL - If yoga doesn't suit - Try Tai Chi and/or Chi Gung.

Cheers

DtG