When the season turns to spring and the warmer weather becomes more frequent, this is the time of year when most of us start to feel re-energized to spend time outside. For our aging population, it can be challenging to find the right variety of outdoor activities that are accessible to various abilities, while also keeping things fun and fresh. We have some ideas to share to help overcome this challenge! Keep reading to get inspired by warmer weather activities you can enjoy at any age.
Fresh Air Stretching
Stretching is an activity that can and should be enjoyed regularly and at every age. Even the younger athlete would do well to add more stretching into his or her routine! This makes it the perfect warmer weather activity to enjoy across multiple generations. Everyone can stretch at their own comfort level, and possibly teach one another a thing or two. As the spring weather brings warm sunshine and a cool breeze, look for a partially sunny spot to set up a mat or blanket. Depending upon your ability you might look for a bench or bring a chair. Set a timer and switch positions at a pace that is comfortable for you. Make it a goal to stretch for 10 minutes each day to get fresh air while doing something good for your body. You’ll be amazed by how quickly you gain strength and flexibility!
Sketching Nature
Mother nature has so much to offer in way of fresh views in the springtime. Take advantage of this inspiration by setting up “shop” outside in a comfortable seat with a sketching pad and pencils. It doesn’t matter if you don’t feel like you’re an artist – it’s all in the eye of the beholder! Simply look around and get inspired by the shapes and colors of nature. Allow yourself time to observe animals and their behaviors, the shape of a flower, or the pattern of clouds. All of these are sure to offer ideas for sketching. The goal isn’t to produce something worthy of a museum, but rather to let the pen and paper be an outlet for your thoughts and emotions.
Sunshine Meditation
Like stretching, meditation is one of those activities that is proven to yield so many health benefits. Even just 10 minutes a day of meditation (bonus: add this on to your daily stretching) can strengthen the mind, improve the mood, and lower stress. Coming out of a long, cold winter, combine meditation with being outside. Look for a quiet spot so you won’t be distracted. If you can find a spot near water or other soothing sounds of nature, that’s great! Even your porch can be a quiet and peaceful spot to meditate while getting some fresh air.
Journaling
And finally, grab a blank journal and make it a goal to fill a page each day this spring. Each day will bring a unique approach to what you choose to write. Some days it might be creative, even poetic. On other days it might be a problem you want to talk through or simply acknowledge. The journal is for you and you alone. Sit in nature, take in the fresh air, and let the thoughts flow. No matter your age or ability, journaling will keep your mind sharp and young while keeping you in touch with your thoughts and emotions.
Which idea shared is your favorite? Or do you have something else to add to this list? Leave a comment or reach out to us to start a conversation! We’d love to hear from you.
