Plan for spring fun with 211
By now, many of us are tired of winter. Even though cold days and nights still lay ahead (and possibly a storm or two), late winter is the ideal time to start planning for spring. If you’re looking for programs and ideas to help you get outside and get your vitamin D, 211 is here to help you come out from hibernation.
There is no substitute for a walk in the fresh air, enjoying the sun’s warmth after being cooped up inside during the cold months of winter. Being outside revitalizes us. If mobility issues make it difficult to enjoy participating in outdoor activities, 211 can help with finding mobility aids that are affordable on any budget.
For those favouring group activities, 211 has information on walking groups throughout the province. Find someone to walk with you and make this a daily social activity you enjoy together. Heart and Stroke Nova Scotia offers a program called Walkabout, a social program that supports and connects walkers across Nova Scotia. People can connect with a walking group either in person or virtually, borrow pedometers and set goals and challenges to track their progress.
If exploring new places is something you enjoy, 211 also has information about provincial parks. Plan a day trip and take a picnic to get out into nature. You can also start planning a summer camping vacation and make a list of some of the beautiful beaches we have in this province that you want to visit. Kids love being outside, so if you have grandchildren visiting during spring or summer, having a “go-to” list will ensure that both you and the kids have activities you can all enjoy together.
You can also start your to-do list for spring cleaning. Clutter can increase stress levels so if you’re hesitant about clearing out items you know longer use, think of the mental health benefits. Ask family members to help and share memories as you go through your belongings. You may want to give special mementos to family members who love them as much as you do. Family can also help you make some decisions about what to keep, donate, sell or throw away and 211 can help with a list of organizations that accept donations in your community.
If you’re a gardener, winter is the perfect time to research and plan for your spring and summer garden. Even people with limited mobility can participate and reap the health benefits gardening provides and 211 can direct you to local community gardens if you can’t have one where you live.
If gardening isn’t your cup of tea, well then, wrap a cozy blanket around you and enjoy a hot cup of tea knowing that warmer days are on the horizon.
For more information about 211 or find programs and services available in your community, call 2-1-1, visit ns.211.ca or text 21167. To request 211 promotional materials or a presentation, contact Suzy at 902-466-5723 or email steubner@ns.211.ca.