Outdoor Activity

Follow our five simple steps to help give your health and energy levels a boost this spring.

Put a spring in your step

Just getting out in the sunshine can be a natural way to lift your mood – and it also helps the body produce vitamin D, which is essential for our bones and teeth.

Step 1- Walk for your wellbeing

Walking is an excellent natural exercise that can help you control your weight; enjoy time with friends and family and learn more about your local area. Get some great walking tips here.

The Woodland Trust has a selection of wonderful woodland walks to enjoy. You can download the routes for free or enter your postcode to find a spring wood near you at their website.

If you haven’t exercised for some time, you may want to talk to your Healthcare Professional before starting a new exercise regime. Remember to wear suitable clothing and footwear, including a waterproof jacket.

Step 2 - Take up a new outdoor activity

How about trying outdoor photography? Spring is a wonderful time of year for taking wonderful pictures of nature and wildlife. And photography is a great way to motivate yourself to see and experience things you might otherwise never get around to. You’ll find lots of photography courses here.

Step 3 - Put some fresh blooms in your rooms

Having fresh flowers nearby can make you feel happier and more energetic, according to a Harvard University study, reported in 2006. People have long suspected that flowers are therapeutic, which is one reason why they’re often given as a ‘get well soon’ gift. Flowers can help people feel more optimistic, which is part of the healing process.

Also, for an instant pick-me-up, try sniffing lemons, peppermint or jasmine or use an essential oil in a burner.

Source: http://www.aboutflowers.com

Step 4 - Eat fresh, seasonal vegetables

Each fruit or vegetable has a prime time when it’s at its seasonal best. That means extra flavour, extra crunch, extra juiciness and best value. In season now are spring cauliflower, spring onions, purple sprouting broccoli, radishes and spinach beet leaves.

Step 5 - Play tennis or another sport

It’s the perfect time to dust off your tennis racket or learn how to play tennis. The great thing about tennis is that it can be as relaxing or as competitive as you make it and it’s a fantastic, fun way to keep in shape. Go to lta.org.uk to find tennis courts, clubs and coaches in your area. 

Or why not get on your bike and rediscover the sheer fun of cycling? It’s eco-friendly, cheap, easy and excellent for your health and waistline. Find more cycling tips and refresher courses at bikeability.

If you have any concerns over your fitness, please consult with your Healthcare Professional before you take up any new exercise routine.

Back to Healthy Body