Who says you have to wait until the new year to set fitness goals for yourself? Fall is a great time to start a new habit and get into a new routine. There are many benefits to doing this before you get into holiday mode as well, since you’ll be less likely to give up on your routines in the new year once you’ve made them habits in the fall.
We’ve pulled together some ways you can make the most of the fall season for your overall well being. Check them out and then take action right away to get into your fall wellness groove.
- Enjoy outdoor activities. Fall weather is excellent for running and long hikes because you won’t overheat the same way you would under the summer sun. Fall is a beautiful time of year as well and there are plenty of ways you can get out and enjoy the change of season whether you’re on your own or with your family. Discover new park trails in your city or hike in a nearby wooded area to take in the fall colours and get some fresh air and cardio at the same time. When the snow falls there are plenty of outdoor activities you can do like snowshoeing, cross country skiing, and skating. Walks in the frosty forest are also a delight to the senses, especially when you’re sipping a cup of tea.
- Try something new. Everyone has that one sport or activity that they’ve always wanted to try. Maybe it’s something like tap dancing, ballroom dance classes with your partner, kayaking or learning a martial art. When you pick something that lights you up you’re more likely to stick to it. The fall is a great time to take up a new hobby or build a new skill that you’ve always wanted to get into.
- Get active while watching TV. It’s no secret that fall TV is filled with great shows in it’s lineup. Instead of watching from your couch, consider how you can benefit your body while watching.
Stretching, walking on the treadmill, standing lunges, lifting weights or literally any other fitness activity can be incorporated into your TV time. Get creative here. Especially if you have a family, you can create activities that everyone can do together while watching a show. - Add exercise into your existing routine. We tend to think of exercise as something you’d do at the gym, but it doesn’t have to be a set block of time in your schedule. You can introduce walking meetings to your schedule, or spend your time catching up with a friend over the phone while you’re out for a walk. Incorporate some squats and lunges while you’re waiting for your coffee to brew or the water to boil on the stove. Any time you’re waiting you can add a little bit of fitness to your day.
- Add restorative practices. Fall is a busy time of year. If you’re not taking care to add restorative practices to your routine you could find yourself getting fatigued or even catching a cold because you’re run down. Avoid this by getting a massage, going to acupuncture, making time to meditate, or trying any alternative therapy that will bring you more peace. Remember that wellness is an inside out approach, so taking steps to replenish your joy and energy from the inside is just as important as making time to exercise.
- Get enough sunlight. One of the toughest things about the fall change in season is the daylight hours getting shorter. It’s important to be exposed to sunlight year round, but you might have to plan for it a little more in the fall. Make a point to get outside during the day when the sun is shining. Getting the benefits of sunshine on your skin at this time of year will do wonders for your mood and mental health.