LESS SCROLLING, MORE STROLLING
THE CASE FOR A DAILY WALK
The science of seasonal movement is real. Cooler air does more than wake you up. It makes your body work harder to stay warm, thus increasing the calorie burn of even a casual stroll. That quick burst of movement in the cold can also boost circulation, improve energy levels, and clear mental fog,
As the temperatures dip and daylight starts to dwindle sooner in the evenings, staying active often falls to the bottom of the priority list. It’s easy to settle into the routine of indoor comfort with more screens and less movement. However, carving out time for a daily walk, even in the chillier months, is a simple and effective way to stay physically and mentally sharp. Fall and winter are nature’s underrated workout months. There’s something calming about a quiet sidewalk covered in fall leaves or a peaceful neighborhood dusted with frost. The colder seasons offer a refreshing and grounding change of scenery. A short walk outdoors allows you to unplug and take in the subtle beauty that’s easy to miss when you’re rushing from one indoor task to the next.
especially if you’ve been sitting at a desk for most of the day. Create a cozy routine you look forward to. One of the best ways to stay consistent during these cooler months is to make your walk enjoyable. Layer up in comfortable gear, choose a playlist or podcast you love, and set a daily reminder to step outside. Whether it’s 10 minutes around the block or a long weekend loop, consistency matters more than intensity. Make it social, rewarding, or both. If you aren’t feeling motivated solo, ask a friend or neighbor to join you a few times a week. If you prefer going alone, add a small reward: a stop for a warm drink, or the satisfaction of checking it off your daily goals list. These little incentives can make your walk something to look forward to.
DISCOVERING THE KOUSA DOGWOOD A Tree for All Seasons
If you’re looking for a tree that combines elegance with resilience, the Kousa dogwood (sometimes called the Chinese dogwood) is hard to beat. Similar in appearance to the well-loved native flowering dogwood, this foreign tree sets itself apart by being more adaptable, more tolerant of cold, and better able to handle drought and disease. Unlike its close cousin, the flowering dogwood, the Kousa waits until late spring to put on its show. From late May into June, its branches are covered in what appear to be delicate white blossoms. In reality, those “flowers” are bracts, modified leaves stretching 2–3 inches long, that frame clusters of small, yellow-green blooms at the center. By midsummer, the blooms transform into pinkish, berry-like fruits that attract birds and other wildlife. The Kousa dogwood is considered a small to medium tree, usually topping out between 15 and 25 feet. Its manageable size makes it versatile in the landscape: It can stand out as a focal point in a front yard, complement a shrub border, or even add structure and beauty to a large patio. Because its roots are relatively shallow and noninvasive, you can plant it closer to homes and structures without worrying about root damage. In terms of growing conditions, the Kousa dogwood is forgiving. It thrives in both full sun and partial shade, though it prefers at least
four hours of sunlight daily. With just a little care, it rewards homeowners with beauty throughout every season. We
have planted them with success for the past 10 years, and we would love to plant one for you.
While the late-spring flowers are its main attraction, this tree has much more to offer throughout the year. Come autumn, its foliage transforms into shades of crimson, garnet, and deep purple. When leaves are gone in winter, its bark turns tan and brown and peels in pieces resembling a puzzle. The Kousa dogwood is a reliable, low-maintenance addition to the landscape that brings four seasons of beauty and earns its place as a favorite in the yard. Call us for your tree planting needs and for consultation around choosing the right tree for your yard at (860) 888-8472.
2 | (860) 888-8472 | (860) 798-2897
Made with FlippingBook Ebook Creator