Fall Activities Can Be Healthy as Well as Seasonal
By Tom Herrin
It seems as if every change of season opens new doors and can have a spirit of its own. As they change, most people have some fond memories that go with each one. The fall of the year makes many think of the colors as well as the cooler temperatures that go with it. Especially for those of us who live in the south, it means that the cool evenings are almost an invitation to get outside and do things. More pleasant days soon follow. I always believe that the fall is one of the best times of year to increase exercise and see more results from it.
Raking Leaves Can Be Good Exercise
Some people dread the thought of dealing with the piles of leaves that seem to grow every time they look outside. Like all activities, it is best to start slowly to avoid straining something that hasn’t been used recently, like muscles. Raking a little every day at first can get people in shape for the bigger challenges. Once people get in a little bit of shape, raking leaves can be a great way to burn a few calories. An hour of raking may burn as many as 400 calories. Since it is something that is likely to be needed every few days for awhile, it can be a really good activity for fall.
Picking Fruit or Nuts Can Actually Help
Many people think of fall as a time for picking a fruit such as apples. In Texas, many times it is picking up pecans. People need to do a little stretching before beginning because bending over and picking up pecans can work the legs and back muscles quite a bit. When I have tried to keep up with pecans, I have had to pick them up everyday for a half-hour or more. It is another way of burning calories. An extra hundred or so calories burned per day doing something such as this can keep those extra calories from adding weight.
Try Some New Recipes
With a new season, it is a really good time to experiment with some recipes you have never tried. The seasonal foods can provide an opportunity to begin to enjoy the benefits of the fall harvest. Traditional foods such as pumpkins can be found to add a new twist to many of the plain ordinary meals many of us tend to find to be a major part of our diets. Fall is a great time to find ways to improve health.
To learn more about your health and wellness, see your local chiropractor at The Joint Chiropractic in San Antonio, Tex.