We are lucky to live in an area with many forest preserves and nature areas where movement happens naturally. With so many amazing places to explore, don't let your movement become repetitive, boring, or expensive.

It doesn't have to be fancy or meticulously planned out. Schedule some time, pick a place or activity, and have some fun. The nice weather days will only be with us for a while, so take advantage of them.  

Getting out in nature to do something active is good for your mental and physical health. When you don't feel like you have the time for something active outside, it is probably when you need it most. You can benefit from this practice by creatively working it into your day.

Let’s look at some ways to enjoy this weather in an active way you love!

 

Everyday Life

Try to get outside for a little while every day. It doesn't even matter what you do. Just getting out tends to make you more active and can be refreshing.

• Take a walk after dinner
• Find a parking spot that will make you walk
• Bike places when you can
• Pick active outings when getting together with friends
• Carry your child or give them a piggyback ride to the car, lunch table, etc.
• Talk and walk when having a meeting with a coworker
• Take your phone calls outside

 

Make It Enjoyable

You will move more if you pick activities you enjoy instead of things you think you should do. Don't choose something you dread; choose something that will be life-giving. You should look forward to your movement and feel energized afterward.

Choose your activities based on your personality and current needs.

• Do you need some time alone?
• Would you prefer some company?
• Do you need to start small?
• Are you ready for something more intense?

What type of activities would fit best with your answers?

• Go to the park
• Play with your kids
• Take a walk with a friend or coworker 
• Go for a walk alone
• Ride a bike
• Do a yoga video
• Swim some laps in solitude
• Enjoy water slides with friends
• Jump on a trampoline playfully
• Play hopscotch
• Have a water balloon fight (get super fun reusable ones here)
• Jump rope vigorously
• Take a dance class
• Go rock climbing (Vertical Endeavors in Glendale Heights)
• Play tennis
• Learn pickleball (at Warrenville Park District)
• Explore your city (or a city near you) on foot

 

Excursions 

Many outdoor places can be enjoyed in a brief visit, but taking a few hours to explore them will make it an especially fun experience.

• Blackwell in Warrenville 
• Herrick Lake in Warrenville
• Lincoln Marsh (& the Prairie Patch Play Area) in Wheaton
• The Illinois Prairie Path
• Danada Forest Preserve (with the Danada Equestrian Center)

 

Let this be the year when you discover an outdoor activity that you love. Don't be afraid to try something new - canoeing, archery, dancing, etc.!

Dr. Jamie

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