Four Outdoor Ideas for People with Chronic Pain

With summer just around the corner, those with chronic pain can feel left out when it comes to outdoor fun. Restrictions on physical activity can mean sitting on the sidelines while friends and family are playing in the sun. But chronic pain experts recommend some daily physical activity to maintain overall health, and studies show that people who are physically active have fewer problems with their chronic pain. Enjoying summer life can be just as rewarding for those who have chronic pain as it is for anyone, and joining in outdoor fun with friends and family promotes overall health and well-being. It’s not necessary to grab a surfboard or tennis racket to engage in summer activity, no need to up your heart rate significantly or sweat profusely. The World Health Organization recommends 30 minutes of moderate intensity lifestyle activity during the day on most days of the week as a general rule. Lifestyle activities are not the same as sports or exercise. But chronic pain sufferers can turn lifestyle activity into summer amusement with the right approach. Here are four ways: Washing the Car: You can take it through the car wash, but then you’d miss out on the stretching and walking you get when washing it yourself. And to make washing the car a fun summer activity, wear your bathing suit and get the kids involved. The hose can be a great water toy. Playing with Children: Turn on the sprinklers and get in there with them. Roll up your pant legs and splash around in the wading pool. And if a swimming pool is handy, grab a noodle and enjoy the many benefits of water exercise. Gardening: This is a wonderful solo activity that can be done regularly right in your own backyard. But there are also community gardens in most cities where planting and landscaping can be a way to share summer fun with fellow gardeners. Garage sale. Get help cleaning out the garage and setting up, but by all means have a summer garage sale. It’s an early morning, outdoor activity so it’s usually not too hot. And getting neighbors, family and friends involved is a way to lighten the physical load and make it fun instead of a chore. Maybe have a bbq with a garage sale as a way to get more people to come over so it’s a social event. It’s important to keep pacing in mind when engaging in any physical activity, especially when chronic pain is an issue. Knowing what movements aggravate pain and what feels good is important, as well, so medical guidance and mindfulness for the chronic pain sufferer are also important. Add your thoughts and comments below and follow us on Facebook!