Most of us spend the winter months yearning for this time of year when we can get outside and enjoy nature. So, now that the beautiful weather and long sunny days are here, what are you doing to connect with the great outdoors?
In fact, summer officially arrived on Monday when the sun reached its northernmost point of the equator. Also referred to as the summer solstice, it’s the day of the year with the most hours of sunlight.
While the beautiful weather and the coming end of another school year is the perfect opportunity for some well-deserved rest and relaxation, it’s also important for adults and children to remain active. Make it a goal for yourself and your family to spend less time sitting in front of the television or computer, and more time walking or being active outdoors. It can be as simple as starting a new after-dinner routine. Go outside for a walk, play with the dog in the backyard or shoot some hoops. Everyone will benefit from the fresh air.
There are physical and mental health benefits that make being outdoors good for you. Physical activity makes you stronger, promotes healthy growth and development, provides energy, decreases stress, and prevents chronic diseases like cancer, heart disease and Type 2 diabetes. In addition to the exercise, the sunlight will activate your body’s production of vitamin D.
The Canadian Society for Exercise Physiology (CSEP) has two helpful resources to help Canadians get active everyday:
- Canadian Physical Activity Guidelines for Adults (18-64)
- NEW for June 2016 – 24-Hour Movement Guidelines for Children and Youth (5-19)
Being active doesn’t have to be difficult or overly structured. It can be as easy taking the time to explore local parks and trails and reap the benefits nature has to offer.
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Explore Wellington County with the help of the Township of Wellington North’s map of the local parks and trails.
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Live closer to or in the City of Guelph? Visit the University of Guelph Arboretum, it’s free! And, you could even consider joining the Guelph Hiking Trail Club.
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If you’re situated in Dufferin County consider taking a stroll through any of the parks and trails in Orangeville or visit Headwaters Trails.
What’s on your summer “bucket” activity list?
