6 CREATIVE WAYS TO STAY ACTIVE DURING THE HOLIDAYS
BY LINDSAY CUOMO . PHOTOS PROVIDED.
BY LINDSAY CUOMO . PHOTOS PROVIDED.
The words “hustle and bustle” tend to define the holiday season, but it is still important to set aside time for healthy movement! Physical activity lowers stress hormones, strengthens your immune system, improves your mood and even helps you sleep better, all things we need to fully enjoy the merriment of the season. “In addition to all of the physical benefits, movement together, away from screens, brings us together,” shared Alexandra Taylor, local mom of two from Newcastle. Taylor’s kids are ages 6 and 1, and their favorite way to stay active year-round is to go hiking. They even have a holiday tradition of a hike on Christmas and Thanksgiving. “Our favorite place to hike is the Wichita Wildlife Refuge in Lawton,” said Taylor. To make hikes or neighborhood walks even more fun, Taylor uses what she calls “listening time,” where everyone gets quiet and listens with intention. “During our hikes, I like to have some quiet time to see what we can hear and enjoy the sounds of nature,” said Taylor. “We might hear leaves rustling or a stream and even more animal sounds because we are being quiet.” Looking for creative ways to encourage your family to be more active? Here are six fun ideas to get moving during the holidays from Shape Your Future. Kids’ growing bodies need 60 minutes of physical activity every day. Parents should aim for at least 30 minutes.
THE WICHITA MOUNTAINS WILDLIFE REFUGE WAS NAMED A 2022 METROFAMILY FAMILY FAVORITES PLACE TO EXPLORE NATURE.
10 METROFAMILYMAGAZINE.COM / NOV-DEC 2022
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