Want to try something new while getting healthy? Check out this fun list from Be Active Be Well !
As the saying goes, if you don’t use it, you lose it. This is a tried and true expression that is consistently relevant. If you’re approaching, or in the throes of your golden years, staying active is incredibly important. Not only do consistent, fun and physical activities help you feel happier and more engaged in life as a whole, it can also help you feel more connected to others and aid in developing a stronger and more optimistic attitude.
From a medical standpoint, an active lifestyle is crucial for everyone, but especially seniors because regular exercise has been proven time and time again to reduce arthritic pain, inflammation, heart disease, and diabetes as well as other adverse health conditions that are more prevalent in aging.
- GO SEE SOME ART
Museums and art galleries are wonderful spaces to be educated, let the mind explore, and be free. Did you know that by strategically parking your vehicle a certain distance away or by taking public transportation, you can make what seems like a simple trip an active, physical one. Besides absorbing the wonderful sights, sounds, food, culture, etc. of another neighborhood, you can also log a mile or two of walking. Your local community center or tourism bureau will have a list of museums, art galleries, etc. Also, any credible art gallery will have a list of surrounding galleries to visit as well. - GET MOVING
Pilates and swimming are fantastic ways to stay in shape; these exercises lubricate the joints as well as engage major muscles and burn calories. Bowling works the core, is very low impact and is usually quite fun! Bocce ball is another activity that works the core and is a team building exercise that does not require much experience. Local parks often have smaller areas that offer this bocce ball. - TAKE PHOTOS
Photography isn’t known for being high impact, but breathing fresh air while going for a sunny hike along a moderately hilly trail is a semi-effortless way to work up a solid sweat all while appreciating and capturing the beauty of nature. At the end of a few trips, you can even use your pictures to create small photo books that you can then use as gifts! There are so many ways to print your pictures for pennies, so no concern about developing expensive film or the like. Shutterfly.com and Zazzle.com are easy to use, online resources to create said photobooks, calendars, etc. - VOLUNTEER
Put together a park or beach cleanup. All it takes is a one or two friends that wish to further better the environment and themselves in one afternoon. Supplies include small to medium recycle and garbage bags, gloves, sunscreen, comfortable, supportive shoes, a sun hat and water (and snacks if you so choose). Before you know it, an hour has gone by and your local park or beach area of your choosing looks great. Feeling relaxed and content are the positive side effects of participating in something simple but so beneficial. - DANCE
One of the least expensive and most accessible ways to exercise is dancing! Dancing has long been revered as low impact and if done well, works out all body parts (all the benefits without the need for machines or gadgets). Community and senior centers will have calendars listing events and/or daily classes for Zumba, aerobic centered dancing and the like. If there is nothing near you or classes are not available, your own space will do. Good music has a way of inciting motivation! Just wear comfy clothing, supportive shoes and get moving for at least 20-30 minutes.
Overall, the key to is to be mindful and in the moment. Give yourself a chance to do something that you enjoy and look forward to doing. Explore your world all while getting healthier and happier! Be Active Be Well
DISCLAIMER: This article contains information that is intended to help the readers be better informed regarding exercise and health care. It is presented as general advice on health care. Always consult your doctor for your individual needs. Before beginning any new exercise program it is recommended that you seek medical advice from your personal physician. This article is not intended to be a substitute for the medical advice of a licensed physician. The reader should consult with their doctor in any matters relating to his/her health.
