For many, in the current times of social isolation, having a garden or outside space is a luxury. Now’s the perfect time to connect with your outside space, appreciate and explore it to find peace amongst solitude.
Your outdoor space, however big or small can be used for physical activity. For example, take some inspiration from Spain, whereby a fitness instructor coordinated group exercise for residents who took part from their balconies.
Use the space you have to get creative and get active
If you are looking for some ideas to start with. Former Olympian, Jess Ennis-Hill will be live streaming 20-minute workouts on her Instagram. Or Make Movement your Mission is a closed Facebook group that will be offering daily 10-minute exercise videos three times a day, for muscles, mind and wellbeing.
Immerse Yourself
Stepping outside into your personal space, whatever it may be, can be the release many will need to disconnect from any indoor stress or worry. How often do we all stop and appreciate what is around us? Now could be the perfect time to do so.
Try immersing yourself outside into your space throughout each day and concentrate on listening to the sounds around you, nature and colours you can see for 10 minutes without any distractions.
Breathing techniques can be easily incorporated into your daily routine and can help to slow your heart rate and relax your brain. By taking in more oxygen it cleanses the body of toxins and triggers the release of endorphins which make us feel happy. Stop Breathe & Think is a FREE app to download to gently ease you into the world of deep breathing.
Gardening
Now could be an ideal time to finish or start those tasks you have been delaying.
You could dig those weeds, water those plants, mow that lawn or clean those gutters and get a great feeling of accomplishment both physically and emotionally, while you’re at it.
Gardening is also something that you can plan, manage and explore. So don’t be afraid to try a range of activities or tasks and find out what you enjoy.
An hour after work or for longer periods at the weekend should allow you to fit some gardening into your schedule without causing too much disruption.
About Active Dorset
Our role as Active Dorset is to help support all of you, to find or continue ways to be active in a way that works for you. We would love for us all to say connected during this time and you can do so by following the #DorsetDailyDose. Each day we will be sharing on twitter a daily dose of either:
- top tips to keep you active
- challenges and tasks for your body and mind
- Connecting people and their stories
We also have a dedicated webpage where you can get your #DorsetDailyDose of physical activity and look after your mental health.
How are you taking care of your wellbeing?
Join the Five Ways Challenge today to receive tips, ideas and inspiration to take care of your wellbeing. Get in touch or register with us to access free advice and coaching to LiveWell.