Eclectic: Regina - Enjoying the Outside During Winter

Regina - SSTattler

By Regina Price

Sometimes during the winter, people who have had strokes or similar problems don’t think they could go out during the winter. On sunny, cheerful days, it would be helpful to our souls and attitude to sit and enjoy the weather from being outside. Sometimes, people who are mobile would really enjoy walking through a park or wilderness centre to observe some of the birds and rabbits and take in the fresh air and sunshine.

I am glad that I am able to be outside on sunny, warm days. I am particularly grateful that I can go cross-country skiing because I also can get my heart beating and it is good for my body as well as my outlook about my life. This year is phenomena l-- because for me, I had never thought that I could go cross-country skiing during the months before Christmas — usually it is too cold and not sunny enough. So far, I went out for two ski treks and, hopefully, more during November and December.

When we watch the news, we might be thinking the world is close to ending because of rioting and violence and killing. It might be wrecking our sleeps. Going out during warm, sunny days changes our outlook and makes us realize that we need to enjoy the minute (and hour) of our lives. I never thought about this before my aneurysm rupture and now I am very glad that I am “about being in the moment” and really enjoy every single day.

If you can’t be outside -- think about outside and how it feels and how you enjoy the sounds and feel the warm of the sun on your face. Think about the woods, trees, frozen lakes or creeks, birds chirping and squirrels clicking, crisp snow and how your feet feel walking through it. Think about remembering going walking or skiing or skating outside (remember when you were a kid) because thinking about this would make you feel better and cheerful. Sometimes it is more important to think about it than it is about doing it — because it heals our body and mind.

If you are thinking about it sometimes our body exercises and that makes us stronger. Sometimes, we can think our way into a newer life — a life you would enjoy immensely. Enjoy your new life!