Imagine this: you start your day with a morning stretch and some tai chi, then head to the Fort Smith Museum of History for a day immersed in local culture. You're relaxed, and your body and mind are in perfect harmony, thanks to everything Fort Smith, Arizona, has to offer residents during National Wellness Month and throughout the year. With no shortage of activities and events, this incredible town offers seniors plenty of ways to get out and move, enjoying engaging classes while making new friends.
The best part of healthy aging in Fort Smith is that it's not a one-size-fits-all, especially for seniors. This August, why not step out of your comfort zone and explore diverse paths to healthier living? Join a community garden, volunteer, or find ways to express yourself creatively.
You'll be happy to try new senior wellness activities, making National Wellness Month a celebration you can enjoy throughout the year!
Active retirement living and wellness aren't just about eating a healthy diet or practicing yoga (although both help!). It's about adopting mind-body activities to nurture the entire person. To start, consider exploring fitness opportunities that also promote mental well-being.
Walking clubs are a great idea. They offer physical activity while connecting with new friends. You can step out, improve your health, and enjoy good conversation.
Balance and stretching are also important. Try to create a 10-minute daily routine that incorporates:
Just be sure not to overdo it. The goal is to prevent falls while promoting lifestyle enrichment.
Chair-based workouts are also perfect for seniors. This includes bodyweight or light resistance exercises. These tasks should be performed comfortably while seated.
This doesn't mean you have to be a master chef or even someone who enjoys cooking. You just need to focus on eating more whole foods.
Seasonal cooking is a great idea, especially in August, when there is an abundance of fresh produce to incorporate. Seniors can cook with:
Try recipes that align with your current diet plan, and if you need assistance, consider enrolling in a cooking course. Some senior centers offer these classes, along with local grocery stores. You can even look for virtual cooking courses.
You might want to cook with loved ones, especially if you have grandchildren. Prepare simple meals that promote bonding and joy.
It's also essential to prioritize water intake, so incorporating hydrating snacks is crucial. Try fruit popsicles and smoothies, made with yogurt.
You don't have to be an artist to enjoy creative expression. All you need is a willingness to try something new. For starters, you can try arts and crafts, including:
These activities support fine motor skills and help seniors embrace their creativity.
Music engagement is another excellent way to express your creativity. You can join local drum circles or singing groups. If there are percussion instruments you can try, you might benefit from an improved mood and the camaraderie of playing instruments with others.
Another great way to express yourself creatively is through storytelling and memoir writing. This includes wiring down life review projects. You can also create email stories to not only keep your brain active but to preserve your family's heritage and legacy for years to come.
Are there any faith or community groups with senior retreats? They might offer weekend wellness retreats with gentle activities and plenty of opportunities for socializing. You can enjoy a change of scenery while relaxing and meeting new people.
If you're looking to stay home, consider virtual clubs. No matter what you're interests are, there are online groups that meet. You might consider joining any of the following groups:
You can combat isolation -- something that affects everyone, especially seniors -- and make new friends.
It's also a great idea to look for intergenerational events. Reach out to schools and local youth groups to see if they need seniors to partner with kids. They can share their wisdom while kids teach them about technology, for example.
Seniors in Fort Smith, AZ, can look for local yoga studios that offer meditation classes. This is a great way to practice mindfulness while trying something new.
If you're looking for something a little more low-key, consider guided relaxation. You can find these videos online and enjoy sessions from the comfort of your home. Consider apps for your smartphone, and look for guided meditation.
You may also want to explore meditation groups. They might meet in the park, coming together to help reduce feelings of anxiety and stress. As a bonus, meditation can work to improve sleep.
You might also benefit from a day of detoxing from the digital landscape. This means it's best to limit screen time and social media use. Don't worry about emails -- instead, focus on reading your favorite book, listening to music, or simply enjoying puzzles.
Practicing wellness can be as easy as trying new, healthy food. Bring a friend or loved one and explore some local eateries. This is perfect for days when you don't feel like cooking but still want to enjoy a satisfying, nourishing meal.
If you have dietary restrictions, always check the menu ahead of time.
Some popular restaurants in Fort Smith, AZ, include:
These restaurants are also great for Mother's Day and Father's Day celebrations!
Seniors are encouraged to celebrate National Wellness Month not just in August, but throughout the year. Whether you're looking to try new activities or simply want to connect with friends and family, there's no better time than the present to prioritize your emotional and physical wellness.
At Morada Fort Smith, all residents enjoy a robust calendar of activities and events that promote a healthy lifestyle while fostering meaningful relationships. We incorporate wellness into an active lifestyle, encouraging residents to embrace life to the fullest. If you're looking for the perfect community for your loved one, contact us today to learn how they can thrive at Morada Fort Smith.