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organs, and releases tension in your body. Ask friends and family to watch funny movies, tell jokes, or share hilarious stories. Likewise, don’t be afraid to try and make someone else laugh. Even a good- hearted attempt might be enough to get the laughter flowing. No. 3: Take a break from the routine. Of course, we don’t want to surrender our healthy habits, but stepping away from our typical routine when we’re stressed can sometimes work wonders. In times of stress, we’re more likely to lose our cool, say harsh things, break down into tears, or shut down all communication. We may also be tempted to keep to ourselves, but remember that winding down doesn’t automatically mean you have to be alone. You can always “break away” by getting coffee with an old friend or reconnecting with family members you haven’t spent time with in a while. No. 4: Share a meal with good company. Whether it’s with family, friends, or fellow members of a church community, find ways to sit down and share a meal with people you care for. Not only does it feel good to be nourished together, but it’s one of the oldest ways human beings congregate, begin long discussions, allow chances to vent, and connect with one another.
No. 5: Take an art class. We’re all a little vulnerable when we release our inner artist and take the chance to paint, color, or sculpt away our stress. That’s why art classes are an awesome way to meet new people and connect. Vulnerability allows us to see new perspectives of people and ourselves. You can even take art classes with current friends and family! It’s a great chance to pause a busy lifestyle, relax your mind, and do something creative. Every human being experiences stress, even those who appear the most carefree. If you’re stressed this month, just remember you’re never alone. I hope these ideas will inspire you to take action.
BIG BENEFITS OF CANOEING AND KAYAKING Paddle Your Way to Better Health
Mental Benefits
The weather is getting warmer, which means you can do more activities in the water. Canoeing or kayaking is an excellent way to get outdoors and be active. Besides looking at the beautiful scenery around you, taking to the water confers several physical and mental health benefits.
• While canoeing or kayaking, your body releases serotonin, dopamine, and endorphins from neurotransmitters. This will help boost your mood and self-confidence and improve your focus . • These activities can enhance your memory and learning ability . This is because it exercises your hippocampus, one of the largest portions of your brain that is responsible for verbal memory and learning. • If you have trouble sleeping, this activity can improve your sleep . Exercising during the day can make you naturally tired, which helps you fall asleep and stay asleep throughout the night. • Since you’ll be in the sun, your body can produce more vitamin D . This vitamin is essential for strong bones and an effective immune system. Canoeing and kayaking are great outdoor activities to help you get your daily dose of physical activity and a mental health boost. So, enjoy the warm weather and be one with nature — this may be your new favorite summer hobby this year!
Physical Benefits
• Paddling can help improve your upper-body strength and muscle tone — because you’re using your arms to guide yourself through the water with the paddle. Paddling helps strengthen your arms, shoulders, chest, and back. • You use your legs to balance, maneuver, and change directions in the vessel. In turn, this movement helps strengthen your lower-body muscles . • While trying to stay centered and balanced on the water, you will develop more core strength . Paddling helps work your lower back, abs, and oblique muscles. • It’s a form of cardiac exercise that will help your heart circulate more blood throughout your body. It will also improve your endurance , enabling you to go longer distances faster.
2 • swbwlawfirm.com
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