Stay Active and Connected
Published Tuesday, December 21, 2021
Stay Active and Connected
By Lily Colquhoun, Prevention and Screening Clinical Services
Are you looking for ways to stay active and meet new people? Good news! There are many activities happening in our community that will help keep our bodies moving and allow us to build social connections. Staying physically active and being an active member in our community are great ways to keep both our bodies and minds healthy.
Physical activity can decrease a person’s risk of developing chronic diseases like diabetes, cardiovascular disease, and cancer. Exercise helps by aiding in weight management, lowering blood pressure, and improving heart health. It can also improve quality of sleep, reduce anxiety and improve memory.
Being healthy doesn’t just mean being physically active. It also means focusing on other areas of health like mental and social wellness. Being an active member in the community allows us to build relationships with others. Socializing has been shown to improve mental health, lower your risk of dementia, and increase confidence and self-esteem.
Participating in group sports or doing activities with friends and family combine the benefits of physical activity and social wellness. Being active can be more enjoyable when done in groups or pairs, so if you’re feeling unmotivated, try inviting some friends along. If your friends are unavailable, look for activities that allow you to meet new people. For example, don’t be afraid to strike up a conversation with a stranger while waiting for the chair lift at the ski hill. You can also look on social media for groups associated with your favourite activity in order to meet people in advance.
Here are some activity suggestions for in and around Thunder Bay this winter.
Downhill Skiing: Thunder Bay has two local hills just minutes from the city. With a variety of terrain and programs for all ages, downhill skiing is a great sport for the whole family.
Ice skating: Strap on your skates! Did you know that Thunder Bay has the most outdoor rinks per capita? You can go skating on your own or invite a few friends to get a game of hockey going.
Snowshoeing: Residents of Thunder Bay are lucky to be surrounded by the great outdoors. Explore the network of trails along the Current River, or take a walk through the Mills Block Forest and catch a glimpse of Lake Superior.
Visit the City of Thunder Bay’s website at https://bit.ly/tbaywinter to find more activities happening in our community this winter.
About the author:
Lily Colquhoun likes to stay active in the winter by taking her dog, Luna, out on the trails. Her favourites are the Cascades and Trowbridge trails since they’re connected to each other and bring on a lengthy walk when done together. Lily often likes to bring a friend along for the adventure. With a busy life, this allows her to get some social connection and exercise at the same time.