By Nolan Kowal, Sport Performance Specialist

As we settle into the “new normal” of physical distancing and start working from home during the COVID-19 pandemic, there are many activities we can still do to help keep us active and engaged both mentally and physically.

Here are five non-workout activities you can do to keep moving and healthy while social distancing.

 

1) Gardening

Gardening is a great way for you to get out of the house and get some fresh air and Vitamin D. Whether it’s something as simple as cutting the grass – or for the more adventurous – planting a vegetable or flower garden, gardening involves many basic and functional movements such as: bending, squatting, lifting, pulling and pushing. These are all important movements for your body, not to mention all that core activation.

As the season progresses, you can either harvest and enjoy the fruits of your labour with fresh produce from your vegetable garden or enjoy the bright and vibrant flowers in your flower garden, which will put a smile on your face. The best part is gardening is an activity your whole family can enjoy!

 

2) Meditation

Meditation is an excellent outlet to help reduce stress, ease tension and anxiety, and promote mental and emotional wellness. When spending the majority of your time at home with your family, it’s important to allocate time for yourself and your own well-being. You can meditate anywhere, whether taking a moment out of a busy day to reflect, de-stress and recharge, or starting or ending your day with a more formal practice.

Some of the physical benefits of meditation include improved sleep quality, lower blood pressure, and better immune function. There are also many mental health benefits, such as building focus and concentration, reducing depression, and helping to manage emotional reactivity.  

 

3) Cooking 

Cooking at home has numerous health benefits, but it is also fun, economical and delicious. You can get the whole family involved and take turns doing theme nights, picking out your favourite recipes together, or getting out of your comfort zone and trying something new.

In a busy kitchen, you will get moving around (which is more movement than answering the door for a food delivery service). Cooking at home can be educational and creative for everyone and allows you to see what is really going into your food. Don’t be intimidated, it is not as hard as it seems!  

 

 

 

4) Playing with your Pets

Playing with your pets is another way to keep you active without “working out”. Besides the emotional support our furry friends provide, they also get us up off the couch. Whether it’s engaging in a vigorous game of fetch in the backyard, a walk through the neighbourhood, or just fooling around in the basement, connecting with your pet during these times is a great way to lift your spirits!

 

5) Walking

Going for a walk is usually an overlooked form of exercise during our hectic lives, but it is the most basic human movement and is one of the most accessible and underrated activities.

Some of the physical benefits are increased cardiovascular function, reduced risk of heart disease and stroke, decreased joint pain and stiffness, strengthened bones, and improved balance.

It is a great activity to boost your mood while adhering to social distancing guidelines. Going for a walk (long or short) allows you to get outside, enjoy fresh air, and get the heart pumping.

 

Remember you don’t always have to workout to stay active and keep fit 🙂