3 min read
Spring into Action!
It’s February, so that means it’s officially Spring, even if it doesn’t quite feel like it yet! The days are starting to stretch and the mornings are getting brighter by the minute. You’ve made it through a long winter, most likely trying to think of creative ways to keep the kids entertained and active indoors, but now it’s time to welcome Spring with open arms, get out and dust off the cobwebs.
Spring is an excellent time of year for reflection and rejuvenation and can help keep you motivated to maintain your New Year’s goals. As the evenings begin to extend before our eyes, there are many ways to enjoy our natural surroundings and get some physical activity in, too. Why not try some of the below suggestions and spring into action with us:
Family Mountain Walk
One of the benefits of living in Ireland is that you’re never too far from a mountain walk or hiking trail. Whether you’re near the Burren, the Sugarloaf or Ben Bulben, there are endless options to explore when setting off on a family hike. Getting out in the fresh air is a fantastic way to boost your overall health without even having to put your hand in your pocket. Getting active outdoors, regardless of your fitness levels will clear your mind and help you feel refreshed and energised. Setting out on a nature trail with your little ones will count towards everyone’s daily physical activity requirement and you’ll have the opportunity to explore the wonders of nature on your doorstep.
If you’re interested in heading for the hills with your Super Troopers this weekend, check out http://www.irishtrails.ie/, where you can search by county for family friendly walking trails and hikes to suit all levels of accessibility.
Outdoor Yoga
Whether you’re a novice, an expert or have never even tried it before, by now, you’ve probably heard all about the benefits of regular yoga practice. As the practice of yoga grows in popularity year on year in Ireland, we’re seeing reference to it just about everywhere – and for good reason, too! Not only is it an excellent way to balance the body and calm the mind, but it’s also a fantastic way to keep fit and build strength. While there are plenty of classes you can sign-up to in different studios across the country, yoga on a budget is possible too. For example, you can easily test out some beginners sequences at home with your little ones (their natural flexibility may surprise you), and after a few sessions, the peaceful backdrop of your own back garden or local park will provide just the right amount of visual stimulation to put you in a tranquil mood.
To give it a go, all you need is a quiet outdoor space, a mat, comfortable clothes and an open mind! Remember to research some practices and poses online and to move in a way that is most comfortable for your body – there’s no right or wrong way, just have fun!
Midterm Mindfulness
Midterm is just around the corner and we know this is a time when your Super Troopers will be full of beans and ready for non-stop action. Take this week as an opportunity to strike a balance between physical and wellbeing activities, to remind and encourage your little ones to reflect and take care of their minds as well as their bodies. There are plenty of ways for you to introduce mindfulness into everyday activities, by taking an extra minute to stretch and practice some breathing activities, or by beginning the day with a Mindful Sitting activity. By taking the time to build practices like these into their activities, over time they will form a vital part of their daily routines, helping to protect and strengthen their minds and bodies as they grow. We have lots of Wellbeing activities for you to try on www.supertroopers.ie, but if you have some suggestions or thoughts to share with us, why not drop us a line at supertroopers@realnation.ie
Whatever way your family chooses, we hope you enjoy getting active and Springing into Action with us this season!
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