The birds are chirping, the sun is shining and pretty soon there will be leaves on the trees and flowers sprouting. Springtime is almost here and it can be a great time to dust off that old health and wellness resolution that many of us lost somewhere after New Years. Physical activity and healthy eating habits are a great way to curb chronic health problems like diabetes, heart disease and obesity.
The warmer weather provides a great opportunity for individuals to get some fresh air and much needed activity. One does not need an expensive gym membership or top notch health center to maintain a healthy lifestyle. Many activities can be done right in your own neighborhood, even on your own porch. Here are some suggestions:
€ Chair aerobics can improve heart rate and muscle tone. Chair aerobics can be done almost anywhere and can be included in any physical activity routine. Participants stay seated in a chair and perform many exercises targeting their core and upper and lower extremities. Chair exercises limit the stress and strain on joints. Incorporating light free weights into your daily workout plan is a great way to increase your heart rate and strength training. Free weights can be used in conjunction with bicep and hammer curls, overhead press and tricep extensions. Leg and calf raises can even be adapted into your chair routine for a lower body workout as well. Rainy days are a great opportunity to implement this routine into your workout, just turn the TV on to your favorite program or turn up the music and watch the time fly by.
€ Horseback riding provides recreational and physical activity for individuals of all abilities: from individuals with autism to chair users. Horseback riding promotes muscle tone and definition as well as increased strength while improving balance, coordination and posture. Individuals who use horseback riding as exercise and recreational therapy often experience an increased awareness of their bodies and higher self esteem by building confidence.
€ According to the American Heart Association, walking can dramatically improve one's heart condition by lowering blood pressure and strengthening the heart. A strong heart is able to pump more blood efficiently thereby lowering the effort of the heart and the amount of pressure exerted. Thirty minutes a day of aerobic exercise can improve your heart condition and put you at a lower risk for many chronic diseases. The trick is to be able to get 30 minutes a day of moderate activity which can include, mowing the lawn, gardening and some spring cleaning. If finding the time is the biggest barrier, remember that sneaking just 10 minutes of activity a few times a day contributes to the 30 minutes needed to maintain a healthy lifestyle.
Just a reminder: Hospice of the Finger Lakes 11th annual geranium sale is currently underway and will continue through May 4. Red, pink, white and salmon geraniums are available for $3.75 per pot. Memorial flags are also available for purchase. To pre-order through May 4, call 255-6233.
Amanda Derby is the housing advocate for Options for
Independence. She can be reached at Options at 255-3447
€ Chair aerobics can improve heart rate and muscle tone. Chair aerobics can be done almost anywhere and can be included in any physical activity routine. Participants stay seated in a chair and perform many exercises targeting their core and upper and lower extremities. Chair exercises limit the stress and strain on joints. Incorporating light free weights into your daily workout plan is a great way to increase your heart rate and strength training. Free weights can be used in conjunction with bicep and hammer curls, overhead press and tricep extensions. Leg and calf raises can even be adapted into your chair routine for a lower body workout as well. Rainy days are a great opportunity to implement this routine into your workout, just turn the TV on to your favorite program or turn up the music and watch the time fly by.
€ Horseback riding provides recreational and physical activity for individuals of all abilities: from individuals with autism to chair users. Horseback riding promotes muscle tone and definition as well as increased strength while improving balance, coordination and posture. Individuals who use horseback riding as exercise and recreational therapy often experience an increased awareness of their bodies and higher self esteem by building confidence.
€ According to the American Heart Association, walking can dramatically improve one's heart condition by lowering blood pressure and strengthening the heart. A strong heart is able to pump more blood efficiently thereby lowering the effort of the heart and the amount of pressure exerted. Thirty minutes a day of aerobic exercise can improve your heart condition and put you at a lower risk for many chronic diseases. The trick is to be able to get 30 minutes a day of moderate activity which can include, mowing the lawn, gardening and some spring cleaning. If finding the time is the biggest barrier, remember that sneaking just 10 minutes of activity a few times a day contributes to the 30 minutes needed to maintain a healthy lifestyle.
Just a reminder: Hospice of the Finger Lakes 11th annual geranium sale is currently underway and will continue through May 4. Red, pink, white and salmon geraniums are available for $3.75 per pot. Memorial flags are also available for purchase. To pre-order through May 4, call 255-6233.
Amanda Derby is the housing advocate for Options for
Independence. She can be reached at Options at 255-3447
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