Tips for Getting Active This Spring

Tips for Getting Active This Spring

As the chill of winter fades away and the days start to get longer, many people feel a sense of renewed energy and motivation to get active. Spring is the perfect time to kickstart a fitness routine or try out a new outdoor activity. Whether you’re looking to improve your physical health, boost your mood, or simply enjoy the beautiful weather, there are plenty of ways to get moving during this season. In this article, we’ll explore some tips and ideas for getting active during spring and making the most of this vibrant and invigorating time of year.

Take a Hike

Spring can be one of the most beautiful times of the year. For this reason, hiking in Spring can be especially rewarding.

There are hiking trails for all skill levels, making this activity very flexible in difficulty. When planning your hike, be sure to check the length and incline of your trail. This will help you ensure that you have chosen a hike that is suited to your needs.

Hiking is not only for sunny days. However, when hiking in the rain or in cold weather, be sure to dress and pack accordingly.

Practice Yoga

Yoga can be done both inside or outside, and requires only a small amount of space. For these reasons, many find that it is a great way to increase physical activity.

Bring the Gym Home

On rainy days it can be nice to stay in the comfort of our own home. There are many exercises that you can do from home. While the possibilities are endless, workouts that can easily be done from home include:

  • Jump rope
  • Push-ups, sit-ups, and other body weight exercises
  • Lifting with dumbbells or kettlebell
  • Walk/run stairs

Spend More Time Standing

You can increase your physical activity by replacing sitting with standing. During periods where you would normally find yourself sedentary, try to mix up your routine by standing. For those with desk jobs, standing desks can offer a great way to get more time on your feet during the day.

Take Walks

On nice days, a casual walk can offer a great way to get active as well as enjoy nature. For cloudy days, a rain coat can offer protection or you can try to get your steps indoors. Simple activities, such as walking through a mall, can actually create a great opportunity to get physical activity, even on a rainy day.

Do What Makes You happy

There are an endless number of possibilities for those looking to increase their physical activity this Spring. The important part is discovering what is right for you. By finding activities that you enjoy, you are much more likely to stay consistent with your physical activity.

Self Care During the Holiday Season

Self Care During the Holiday Season

It care be hard to make time for self care during the holiday season. However, with the days getting shorter and holidays bringing stress to many, self care is particularly important during this time of the year.

Self care can benefit both your mental and physical health. Even small actions of taking care of yourself can have a big impact on your wellbeing. 

There are an infinite number of ways to practice self care, and much of it is up to personal preference. To help get you started on your journey of practicing self care during the holiday season, we have provided the following ideas.

Monitor and Manage Your Stress Levels

Try your best to monitor your feelings and stress levels. By recognizing when you are starting to feel stressed, it can be easier for you to redirect yourself.

When you are feeling yourself becoming overwhelmed from things you need to complete or work on, we recommend giving yourself a break, and then taking a minute to write down a list of the things you need to get done. This can help you better manage your time, and hopefully make your list of tasks feel less daunting.

Take Time for Physical Health

As the weather gets colder, many people spend less time taking care of their physical health. This is primarily because many people enjoy doing activities or exercising outside. However, there are many forms of exercise that can be done indoors. We recommend looking into exercise methods that can be done in cold weather or indoors, and finding something that interests you. 

 It is important to note that every bit of exercise counts, and even in small amounts it can be very beneficial. 

 

Give Yourself “Me” Time

As the year gets closer to its end, people often are faced with added pressure of the holidays, finances, relationships, and more. It is important to know that it is okay to take a break, and give yourself time for you. Time is not wasted by relaxing or doing what you enjoy. By giving yourself this time, you will be able to better handle any pressures you are faced with.

Get Enough Sleep

Make getting enough sleep a priority. The CDC recommends that adults aged 18 to 60 get at least 7 hours of sleep each night. By sticking to a sleeping schedule, many find it easier to fall asleep and stay asleep through the night. Try to keep up with your sleep schedule even during your off days. 

Focus on your Hobby or Discover a New One

Hobbies can serve as an excellent form of self care, as they can help bring your focus to what you enjoy. Even if your schedule is busy, try to make time to focus on your hobby. Some may find it hard to find a hobby that they like. For those looking to find a new hobby, consider trying local classes or doing a simple Google search of hobbies that may align with your interests.

Connect With Others

Connecting with friends and/or family can serve as a form of self care. When dealing with the stressors of life, some may find themselves feeling distant from others. Reach out to those you love for connection and support.

When to Seek Professional Help

Self care can be very beneficial to your health, but it is not always enough. If you are experiencing severe symptoms that last for more than two weeks, it is suggested that you seek further professional help. These symptoms include, but are not limited to:

  • Inability to perform daily activities or keep up with responsibilities
  • Difficulties concentrating 
  • Loss of interest in things or activities you typically find enjoyable
  • Struggling to get out of bed in the morning
  • Appetite changes resulting in unwanted weight loss or gain

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