5 Fun Spring Activities For Seniors
Now that winter has officially come to a close, there are signs of revitalization and optimism all around New England. The grass is starting to look greener, birds are chirping and the outdoors is just calling out to us. The fair weather is a terrific opportunity for seniors to get out and add some spring into their step. Here are a few ways seniors can put a “spring” in their step this season.
- Go Antique Shopping
Going “antiquing” can be a terrific way to get out with friends and loved ones. It’s a low-key activity that has no real expectations other than coming across nostalgic items that send you down memory lane. You’ll have an opportunity to tell friends, children and perhaps grandchildren stories about how things used to be. Think about phones with cords, TVs with antennas, record players or what an 8-track tape player was. Antique stores are like a box of chocolates; you never know what you’ll find. But you’ll get to stretch your legs and enjoy some quality time with others. - Visit Beautiful Bodies of Water
Spring seems to draw us to bodies of water. There are many ways to approach this getting-back-to-nature attraction. With Mystic being near the water, check the hourly weather and pick times that will be warm and comfortable. Bring a foldable beach chair, lunch and enjoy a pleasant walk along the waves, the boardwalk, or Mystic River. Parks with lakes and ponds are equally enjoyable for those who are further inland. Those areas also tend to become warmer earlier in the season. It’s all about embracing the great outdoors! - Put Your Green Thumb to Work
Planting seeds and early spring flowers, such as pansies, is another sign that spring has arrived. Spending a morning digging in the dirt will help you reconnect with the earth and get the blood flowing. You can even get a head start on your gardens. Herbs like oregano, cilantro, and basil do well in window pots and can go out once the last frost has passed. If you want to try mammoth sunflowers, they can be started inside and transplanted outside successfully. To effectively pull this off, take the soil from the spot that you plan to transplant. - Connect with the Mind, Body, & Spirit
As the weather warms up, you’ll start to see outdoor classes such as yoga and tai chi. Seniors tend to gain tremendous energy and health benefits from these low- impact mind-body activities. They’re also excellent small community gatherings that present an opportunity to meet new friends. - Create a Walking Routine
Just about everyone enjoys taking a walk. Creating a walking routine is a commitment to enhancing your energy levels. Spring presents an opportunity to get started. Pick a park with well-kept pathways and use a distance-tracking gadget such as a Fitbit to monitor your steps. You may consider joining a walking club with like-minded folks.
Spring serves to revitalize the natural landscape and activate our need for physical activity. It’s a great time for seniors to embrace activities that reinvigorate your body; so take a deep breath of that fresh seasonal air and start feeling younger than ever!
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