Silver and Gold Magazine Summer 2019 | Page 15

SUMMERTIME... AND THE LIVING IS EASY – By Claire Faver S ummer is finally here and there are countless opportunities to take advantage of this sunny season. Reduce Stress Have a green thumb? Gardening has a range of health benefits for both body and mind. When you’re working in the garden, you’re burning calories and strengthening your heart, essentially reducing your risk of heart attack and stroke. Also, gardening reduces stress. You’ll be surprised how digging in the dirt actually produces a cathartic effect. So next time you have a rough day, be sure to get into your garden and let the stress melt away. Host an Outdoor Party Social gatherings provide us with an opportunity to share with others and give us a sense of belonging and connection with the world around us. Make the most of these lovely summer days and evenings by hosting an outdoor party, a weekend barbeque or exchanging campfire stories over s’mores with the kids and grandkids. Perhaps you could even create a new tradition! Explore the Community Get out there and enjoy everything your community has to offer this summer. Pick up some fresh produce from your local farmer’s market, tempt your taste buds at a Rib Festival or go see a live concert. A lot of yoga studios and community centres also offer free “Yoga in the Park” events if you are looking for a low-intensity exercise. Wherever your summer takes you this year, be sure to make it a memorable one with so much to see and do! • Claire Faver is the Marketing Coordinator at Mandarin Restaurant Franchise Corporation. www.mandarinrestaurant.com “Wherever you go, no matter what the weather, always bring your own sunshine.” – Anthony J. D’Angelo, author Silver & Gold Magazine ~ SUMMER 2019 15