Between work and vacation, who has time to exercise? Exercising during the summer when the allure of fun in the sun can sometimes feel like just another chore on your to-do list, but it’s important to remember that any type of exercise will release feel-good chemicals, like endorphins, dopamine, and serotonin, which can help improve your mood, increase your confidence and self-esteem, and alleviate symptoms of stress, anxiety, depression, and even pain1
That’s why we’ve developed these quick and easy exercises you can do to help protect your physical and mental health while still making the most of your summer!
Talk & Text on the Move: Next time you’re stuck on the phone talking or texting, take those few minutes to walk around the block to soak up the sun while getting your heart rate up.
Tip: Next time you anticipate a long call, prepare to take your dog for a walk at the same time. Your fur baby will appreciate the exercise as well!
Yardwork Yoga: When the sun is out, you might feel like you’re spending your evenings and weekends just cutting grass and pulling weeds, which is tiring enough without adding vigorous exercise to your day. Fortunately, you can do some light stretches outdoors in nature to release some tension without breaking a sweat. Take a moment in nearby greenspace or your yard to focus on your breath to relax your body and mind while relieving the stress of the day.
Commercial Break Bursts: After a long day in the sun, there’s nothing better than lounging while watching your favourite show. Now you can binge TV guilt-free while taking 30 seconds at a time to do a few pushups, crunches, or even jumping jacks.
Kid Cardio: After work, you can bet that you’ll be running after your kids while they enjoy their summer vacation, so why not embrace it? Bring your kids to the park or backyard and make a game out of racing from one point to another. Not only will you benefit from exercise and quality time with your kids, but it’ll also tire them out and give you all a good night’s sleep!
Park and Play: Though an air-conditioned car might seem like the more comfortable choice when running errands, walking to the store can be a great way to get moving and enjoy the outdoors. Even walking with your partner or family to get a refreshingly cold treat (to be healthy, let’s say a smoothie, but if ice cream is the winner, then there’s no judgment here) is a fun way to get active.
Tip: Exercising with loved ones is a particularly excellent way to feel connected, happy, and healthy!
Whichever of these quick and easy summertime exercises you choose, remember that exercise is an effective way to treat your body and mind! If you would like more information on how to simultaneously improve your mental and physical health, please visit Homewood Therapy@Home for online counselling options: https://homewoodhealth.com/home/services/therapyathome/