Valentine's Day is a wonderful time to share with your friends, family, and loved ones how much you appreciate them. Though it can also feel like a classic box of chocolates day… you never know what you might get. This V-Day, whether you're riding solo or with your Valentine, be sure to take some time for yourself. One of the best ways to connect deeper with yourself is to step outside and just
B R E A T H
So today, we will be sharing 10 ways to get outside using Fit My Foots custom insoles so that you can show yourself—and your feet— the love you deserve!
1. Hike
First on the list is to get up and take a hike! Being out in nature has many health benefits that will leave you feeling refreshed and grateful. Bonus points if you can get out early enough to see the sunrise! According toOladoc, early morning light affects the hormones responsible for regulating metabolism and appetite, which is especially important on a day that tends to romanticize stuffing your face full of chocolates…
Additionally, waking up early can help regulate melatonin production and cortisol levels. This will optimize your sleep schedule and enhance your energy to prepare you for the days ahead. By going on a morning hike, you will promote a healthier diet, sharpen your mind, and improve your mood!
2. Trail walk / run to a picnic
If the mountains aren’t calling to you, maybe a nice walk or jog to your local park has a nice ring to it. Bring along a blanket, some picnic snacks, and kick off your shoes! With our custom insoles, you likely won't even think about going barefoot, but we encourage it!Washington Postshares research on how “barefoot contact with the earth can produce nearly instant changes in a variety of physiological measures, helping improve sleep, reduce pain, decrease muscle tension and lower stress.” While you’re there consider:
- Listening to podcasts or music
- Meditating
- Binging a friend (or furry friend) along to enjoy each other’s company
Taking even a short break to get outside will ease your mind and leave you feeling refreshed!
3. Bike
Whether you're an adventure junkie looking to climb and descend the highest mountains or just looking for a nice tour around the neighborhood, biking is the perfect activity. Not only does it allow you to see more in a shorter amount of time, but it will also get your blood pumping and allow you to truly feel your heart beating!
4. Ski / Snowboard / x- country
Another fun filled activity in the winter is to hit the slopes! Take a deeper plunge into our article about the incredible health benefits of custom orthotics in skiing and snowboarding here.
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5. Ice skate
If your local ski hill isn't so local, consider going to a frozen pond or even a skate rink. The cool breeze flowing through your hair will give the illusion of being outside and allow you to engulf yourself in the season's spirit!
6. Golf
There's nothing like cracking open a cold one out with the crew… That is until your feet start to ache and blister. This time, don't forget to plop your inserts in. You and your golf game will be grateful for the balance, stability, and focus that comes.
7. Yoga
Deepen your mind and body connection with yoga! A great place to start your practice isYouTube where you can search for beginner, intermediate, or advanced lessons. Many yoga stances can be done outside and are useful for simultaneously strengthening and stretching your body. One move called thecosmic egg is easy to do and basically feels like you're giving yourself a big hug —perfect for some self-love!
Yoga can also allow you to focus on where you hold pain both physically and mentally. By paying attention to this, you can begin to release what no longer serves you and take steps towards a brighter future.
8. Virtual fitness class
On top of yoga, there are plenty of virtual classes you can do whether on YouTube or through a program. If you don't have any equipment to workout with, think again! Plenty of household items can be used as workout equipment and give you great results! Some examples include using water bottles, soup cans, or a laundry basket filled with heavy items as weights. You can also use stairs for cardio or simply a towel on the ground to get your sweat on!
9. Roller blade / go to skate park
Do you remember the last time you were able to forget all about your worries, aches, and pains to just have fun? This is your sign to roll on over and just PLAY! Giving yourself permission to have fun will release endorphins, also referred to as the body’s natural painkillers by Harvard Health. Endorphins both relieve pain and create an overall sense of well-being.
Moreover, having fun releases oxytocin which promotes relationship building. In fact, some people refer to oxytocin as the love, hug, and touch hormone. Dopamine is also released and can have many benefits including enhanced cognitive ability and boosting feelings of happiness and reward. Needless to say, whatever you end up doing this Valentine's Day, make sure to have fun!
10. Explore
Our last outdoor activity is to wander and explore somewhere new! If you have been curious about trying something out and haven't had the chance to do it, Valentine's Day is a great day to take yourself out on a date! Here are some ideas to get you started:
- Attend a community event such as an outdoor movie or concert
- Pot plants to create a home garden
- Find a spot to watch the sunset
- Take photos! (And don't forget to follow and tag us on Instagram and Facebook!)
We hope you enjoyed these 10 activities and have a wonderful time doing them this Valentine’s Day.
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