- Start by seeing yourself as active. Stand tall, pull your shoulders back
and step lively. Plan to add physical activity to your normal day.
- Move your fingers and toes while talking on the phone. Take a stretch
break when sitting for long periods of time. Roll your shoulders in large
backward circles to correct the stooped back that develops when you are
knitting or working at a desk.
- Stretch and breathe deeply every day. It will keep youloose and help you
relax.
- Walk. Get off the bus early; walk around the mall once before you enter
a store; walk to the store andcarry small groceries home; take a friend
in a wheelchair shopping; walk your dog (or borrow a neighbour’s);
use the stairs instead of the elevator.
- Wash and polish your own car (you’ll save money too); speed up your
housework with music on the stereo.
- Enjoy walking out-of-doors. See new neighbourhoods; try hiking, bird watching
or star gazing with a special person. Take a grandchild on a picnic or nature
trail walk
- Try swimming or aqua fitness. Moving around in the water is really helpful
if you have joint or breathing problems.
- Enjoy the rewards and healing power of a garden - in your back yard, on
a rented plot or in pots on your balcony.
- Take a preschooler to the park. Fly a kite or build a snowman with a young
friend.
- Join a group for dancing or fitness classes. There is nothing like enjoying
an activity with lively music, while meeting new friends.