springtime self-improvement tips for people with disabilities

Spring Into Action

Advice for Springtime Self-Improvement from

Shepherd Center Experts

Let the Sun Shine In

Pleasant weather can improve mood, memory and thinking. So get outside! What you do does not matter as much as doing it consistently.

Just go to the mailbox.

Visit the patio to soak in some rays and listen to the birds.

Meditate outside, listening to the sounds around you rather than the chatter in your head. Schedule time on your calendar to meditate. Leave your cell phone inside, or at least on the vibrate setting.

Urszula Klich, Ph.D. Clinical Psychologist, Shepherd Pain Institute

Ideas for Outdoor Fun Go to a park. Visit a zoo. Work in your garden. Try a new sport. Exercise outdoors. Explore a local trail. Invite friends for a visit

on the patio.

Words to the WISE

Wear sunscreen and check your skin often for sunburn.

Wear loose clothing. Layering always helps.

Drink plenty of water. In warmer weather, exercise

outside in the morning when it’s cooler to avoid overheating.

Take breaks during outdoor exercise to conserve energy.

Involve a caregiver, friend or family member in outdoor activities to enhance support and happiness.

For More Information Recreation Therapy Shepherd Center Sports Teams Adventure Skills Workshop Wheelchair Division of the Peachtree Road Race

www.shepherd.org/resources/sports-recreation

ProMotion Fitness Centerwww.shepherd.org/about/patient-and-family-guide/promotion-fitness-center

Beyond Therapy®

www.beyond-therapy.org