Top 5 Outdoor Activities That Allow Seniors To Be In Touch With Nature

Nature is one of the best remedies to both treat and prevent illnesses. Being in touch with nature allows senior citizens to be healthier, more active and regulate their mood better. As one ages their body requires proper care as it becomes more vulnerable to diseases and physical limitations. Seniors with mobility issues should try to spend more time in nature to not only to avoid inconvenience to themselves but also to prevent the need for extra medical care. Being surrounded by greenery, soaking in sunlight and listening to bird-call can help senior citizens in reducing their stress levels and improving their mood. Being in nature can also help senior citizens in avoiding a perpetual feeling of physical and emotional lethargy. Learn about top 5 outdoor activities for senior citizens.

Here are some nature activities that allow senior citizens to be in direct contact with the nature:

Cycling

For healthier individuals, cycling is one of the best outdoor activities for senior citizens to be in nature. Cycling can help senior citizens in strengthening their leg muscles while allowing them to witness natural beauty. However, senior citizens with mobility issues such as back-ache and joint pain must avoid cycling to prevent discomfort or the possibility of worsening the pain.

Senior citizens whose health allows them to ride bicycles, can do so for a maximum of 20- 30 minutes daily in parks, especially early in the morning. By cycling in the morning senior citizens can rejuvenate themselves by taking in the fresh air and sunlight. However cycling later in the day when the sunlight is very harsh especially can cause heatstroke or dehydration. Cycling can also help in enhancement of hydration, physical and mental well-being as well as better breathing.

Taking Slow Walks In Parks

Senior citizens suffering from mobility issues can also benefit from basking in sunlight and being surrounded by greenery. Senior citizens can take slow walks in the park early in the morning. If there is a terrace garden seniors can also choose to sit in the sunlight. A light picnic at a nearby park can also allow senior citizens to be in the company of nature and its sounds. Light snacks while reading in the park early in the morning can also be very beneficial for the mental health of senior citizens. It is suggested that senior citizens should go on picnics when the weather is breezy to make the most of their time in nature and elevate their mood.

Practicing Yoga in Park

Yoga allows senior citizens to fully stretch their body and avoid joint and muscle stiffness while promoting overall flexibility and internal health. Light yoga in the morning may allow senior citizens to reduce stress and attain better physical health while avoiding illnesses. Senior citizens can also enhance their flexibility through yoga poses. Practicing yoga as an outdoor activity brings various benefits for senior citizens.

Gardening

Gardening is a physically strenuous outdoor activity; hence it is suggested that only healthy senior citizens participate in it. Gardening not only includes working with your hands but also preparing the soil, planting the seed and watering it properly till the flower blooms. Gardening allows seniors to be active while being attached to nature. Senior citizens may feel an enhancement in their mood once they see their hard work bear results.

To make their gardening experience more meaningful, seniors may consider planting a vegetable garden which can promote healthy eating habits. A vegetable garden may also help seniors in relying on market bought fruits and vegetables that are grown with pesticides and insecticides.

Travelling for better health

Travelling offers a refreshing break from routine life. Senior citizens can travel with the overall goal of relaxing in the midst of nature. Seniors can consider taking scenic mountain vacations or sunbathing on a beach. As India has various travelling spots which are located in the lap of nature, senior citizens do not need to undertake the hassle of going through Visa related procedures. Senior citizens whose health allows them, can take part in adventurous activities such as jungle safaris or nature walks. Seniors who love swimming can also enjoy rafting in suitable weather. Most hill stations are well equipped to treat emergencies which can be a reassurance for senior citizens.