February is all about love, and one of the best ways to show your heart, mind, and body a little love is by breaking a sweat in the great outdoors. Exercise is one of the best things you can do for your heart health—with cardiovascular benefits including lowered cholesterol and blood pressure. And considering that active people are half as likely to suffer from heart disease and stroke, it’s important to let go of excuses and get moving! The good news it, it doesn’t have to be a chore.
Take it to the next level, and have fun doing it, by exercising outdoors. Just being outside can reduce stress, restore mental fatigue, and improve mood, self-esteem, and perceived health … all things good for your heart. And if you’re lucky enough to get some sunshine in the winter months, you’ll also get an extra boost of vitamin D, which can improve your mood and keep your immune system strong!
So, don’t let the cold keep you in. Check out these cold-weather friendly activities that are sure to get your heart pumping—even if you’re buried under a blanket of snow:
- bundle up and go for a brisk walk or hike
- start jogging
- go cycling—if your local road conditions permit
- organize a hockey game—on the road or on ice
- take the family sledding
- lace up your ice skates
- go cross-country or downhill skiing
- strap on some snowshoes
- shovel the sidewalk or driveway (brownie points included)
- chop wood to stoke the fire
Taking your workout outdoors will also bring you closer to your community—and what’s not to love about that? By exploring close to home, you’ll have the chance to breeze by local cafes and boutiques and say hello to a neighbor. So, what’s stopping you?
Try it!
On your lunch break (even if you’re working from home) go for a short walk in nature to feel rejuvenated and more focused for the remainder of your day.
Are you going to try and make one change? Share with us on Instagram and Facebook @deliciouslivingmag. You’ll find plenty of support within our community of like-minded wellness enthusiasts!
