Fall officially arrives this week! With the change of seasons comes cooler weather and brilliant fall colours, providing an opportunity to enjoy the hobbies you love or try something new. These activities are great for staying active and can also boost your well-being. So, whether you go for a walk, or curl up with a good book, feel good knowing you’re doing some good for both your body and your mind!
Go for a walk and enjoy the colours
Walking has long been considered an ideal form of physical exercise. Some potential benefits include improvements to heart health and physical function and pain reduction. Moreover, walking is accessible, requires no special skills or equipment, poses little risk of injury, and can be done virtually anywhere.
Connect with your artistic side
Are you someone who enjoys expressing themselves artistically? The changing scenery provides a perfect opportunity to pull out your paintbrushes and create something inspired by the colours of autumn. If painting isn’t your thing, artistic activities like dancing, singing, or creative writing can also positively affect your health and well-being and help with things like memory, problem-solving and reaction time.
Unwind with some gentle Yoga
Yoga has many benefits, including the potential to improve health-related quality of life—which takes into consideration physical, mental, emotional, and social functioning and how these areas impact a person’s overall health. For older adults with type 2 diabetes, it can also help manage blood sugar and blood pressure. Yoga is an activity you can enjoy from the comfort of your own home or outdoors, as it requires minimal equipment and can be adapted, allowing you to work at your own pace and comfort level.
Try a new recipe
Thanksgiving is coming, and pumpkins are soon-to-be in season! Get creative in the kitchen by trying a new recipe or revisiting an old family recipe. While eating delicious food nourishes the body, preparing (and sharing) meals can improve self-esteem and promote a more positive aging experience.
Curl up with a good book
Finally, consider indulging in a good book or joining a book club. Reading can relieve symptoms related to depression and dementia and is a relaxing activity that can help reduce feelings of isolation.
Create fond memories this fall and unlock potential benefits for your health and well-being by trying out some of these activities. To learn more about these strategies, read through our resources below.
