July is Parks and Recreation Month!
Did you know that moving your body benefits both your physical and mental health? Daily exercise is easier than ever right now. Parks have many fun opportunities for the whole family—play equipment for kids, walking paths for adults and pets and open areas for playing outdoor games!
Join the Thumb Community Health Partnership (TCHP) for Parks and Recreation Month. Help us celebrate how the Thumb is strong, vibrant, and resilient because of parks and recreation. Parks and recreation have a positive impact on communities across Huron, Lapeer, Sanilac, and Tuscola counties.
There are many ways to get moving. People of all ages and fitness levels can benefit from increased activity. The Office of Disease Prevention and Health Promotion (ODPHP) recommends that adults spend 150 minutes per week being active. Try activities that get your heart pumping. Remember not to over-exert yourself, especially in the heat. It is also a good idea to check with your doctor before you increase your activity. Activities that build your muscles two days per week is also beneficial. Spending time in local parks is a great way to enjoy the outdoors and be physically active. Even chores and yardwork can count toward exercise on busy or rainy days.
If you have kids, it is important to set a healthy example! Kids who are active an hour every day sleep better, feel better, and do better in school. ODPHP provides great ideas for boosting physical activity levels as a family. Try them out at your favorite local park.
•Play active games with your kids, such as a race or a scavenger hunt.
•Store sports equipment in your vehicle and other places that make it convenient to use.
•Be active in front of your kids.
For more information about opportunities in the Thumb contact us. Visit www.thumbhealth.org/thumb-region-attractions. Join the conversation at www.Facebook/ThumbHealth or contact Kay Balcer, TCHP Director at 989-553-2927.
—Thumb Community Health Partnership
