6 Ways to Maintain an Active Lifestyle this Winter

As Old Man Winter settles in with his long nights and cold days, it’s common for people to experience the “winter blahs.”

Boredom is often a complaint, especially from older people and those facing health challenges, but there are many ways to maintain an active lifestyle through the cold winter months! These 6 tips will keep you engaged and energized all winter long!

• Adapt – The older we get, the more we realize the only constant changes. A new season is a great time to reflect on the past and on our hopes and dreams for the future. It’s never too late to pursue a new dream or revisit an old one. Dreams offer hope, and hope brings energy and enthusiasm to make the most of each new day.

• Companionship – Often due to a disability, divorce, and death, many older people are alone. Connecting with others can be quite beneficial, especially for people who are lonely, bored, or isolated. A warm greeting, a friendly face, a hand to hold, an ear to listen, and a heart to understand—there is such value in interacting with others.

• Talents – From photography and gardening to crafts and scrapbooking, everyone has unique skills and abilities. What are your talents and favorite pastimes? Whether pursuing a lifelong hobby or trying something new, chances are there may be a club or group within your community for people with similar interests to gather, participate in activities, socialize, and encourage one another.

• Internet – Over the past few years, social media channels such as Facebook, Instagram, Pintrest, Twitter, FaceTime, and Skype have revolutionized the way people communicate. If you don’t consider yourself computer savvy, consider looking into classes offered by local community centers. Learning a new skill is a great way to keep your mind sharp and get the creative juices flowing.

• Volunteer – Giving back to the community and helping others can be a very rewarding experience. It’s also a great way to say connected, physically active, and mentally stimulated. From tutoring students to mentoring small business owners, lending at hand at a local food bank or soup kitchen, to helping at a non-profit or faith-based organization, there are many ways to share your time and talents. Explore community service opportunities through USA.gov.

• Exercise – What list of ways to be active would be complete without mentioning exercising? Participating in an exercise routine can be a great way to maintain your health and independence. When considering what type of exercise may be best, consider the benefits. For example, yoga can be great for balance and flexibility. Jogging or cycling can be great to build endurance. You don’t have to join a gym or health club to reap the benefits of exercise. Just look for ways to kick your routine up a notch, like walking the shopping mall or grocery store.

Regardless of your age, it’s important to recognize your personal limitations and not overdo it. If you have any questions or concerns about overextending or exerting yourself, speak with a healthcare professional to devise a plan that is best for you.

Whatever you or your loved ones do to keep active, be safe, and of course, have fun. From all of us at Caring Hearts, we wish you a happy, healthy, and active 2014!