The dreary winter months often lead us to stay indoors and participate less in the community. It’s important to upset that pattern, though, and avoid a sedentary lifestyle. When we spend more time in the company of others and encounter new surroundings regularly, it activates our minds and encourages physical activity that helps us stay happy and healthy.
The arrival of spring means warmer weather and longer days—a perfect combination of ingredients to cook up some more activity in your life. If you’ve been looking for a way to chase away the winter doldrums, here are some ideas on how you can add some variety to your life this spring:
- Take up a new hobby like bird watching or fishing, or resurrect a hobby you enjoyed in the past.
- Plant some windowsill herbs like basil and thyme. If you’ve never done this, look for guidance at your local nursery. If you’re computer-savvy, look for inspiration on Pinterest or visit websites like DIYNetwork for advice.
- Do you have the space for a garden outside? If so, get your hands dirty (or wear gardening gloves) and plant some spring-loving flowers like pansies, daffodils, tulips, and lilacs.
- Visit with a friend. Brighten someone’s day who isn’t as mobile by spending an hour or two catching up in person.
- Take your exercise program outdoors. Practice yoga in the park, participate in tai chi under a tree, or just go for a walk to the corner store.
- Rid your home of dust and germs, and while you’re doing so, open some windows to allow fresh air to circulate.
- Take a field trip to a local theater museum, or park. Check out your local senior center for a list of planned day trips.
- Learn how to speak French or use Microsoft Word by enrolling in a local community education course. Here on the Seacoast, communities like Kittery, Maine and Exeter, N.H. offer a variety of courses suited to all different for a nominal fee.
- Look into volunteer opportunities. Help clean up a park, be a theater usher, or help out at your local hospital.
- Support your local farmer and pick up some fresh produce at a farmer’s market. Half a mile away from Wentworth Senior Living is Portsmouth’s own farmer’s market, open every Saturday from May 6 until November 4.
These are just a few ways to take advantage of improving weather. Whether you try one or all ten, the important thing is to break up your winter routine and get back into the world. When you do, you’ll see how good it is for your attitude and health.