play

One of the many things I love about my work at Ophea is that we not only promote healthy, active living in schools and communities, we encourage our own staff to get out and play.

Today was our monthly full team staff meeting, a day where all 30+ staff meet to learn and share about upcoming projects and hot trends/topics. Today we did something different – as a staff – a group of adults – we played!

Bocce, Badminton, Croquet, Frisbee, and Horseshoes were all on the activity plan and everyone got moving to their choice of sport and had fun. We connected as a team, we got to know each other better, we got active together and we played.

This Saturday marks ParticipACTION’s Longest Day of Play event. June 21st is the Summer Solstice and the day with the longest period of daylight in the Northern Hemisphere – so why not celebrate it with play!

Use the extra daylight to go for a hike, play some Frisbee, get out for a walk or run, do something that is fun and playful for you, and enjoy the longest day and Longest Day of Play!

For more information on PartisipACTION’s Longest Day of play click here!

How did you play on Saturday June 21st? Share it in the comments!

This is definitely one of the coldest winters that I remember in a long time , but that hasn’t stopped the Tribe! Just because Jack Frost is lingering outside your door, doesn’t mean it’s time for hibernation – in fact, hibernation isn’t an option!

Here are 5 tips to keep active outdoors this winter!

1. Dress For The Weather.

Layering is key. Many of the tribe team who are going on their first winter run ask about clothing and layers when getting active in the cold. Here are some tips:

choose technical exercise clothes and outerwear
first layer should be thin and thermal layer — a moisture wicking tank top and fleece lined tights
mid layer is about warmth – a lightweight fleece hoodie or jacket
outer layer should protect you from the winter or rain —think a jacket/shell or vest, and pants. This outer layer should give you warmth without bulkiness and enable you to peel off the layers as you heat up.
top it of with hat, mitts, and a scarf as appropriate

Still need help? Check out this handy guide from Runner’s World!

2. Make a Date (with your real family, or fit family).

Two facts: 1. Healthy misery loves company. 2. You are less likely to bail on a friend then you would on yourself. So, on these cold winter days invite a friend and get a move on! Whether it’s a new hobby (see below) or simply a walk in the park. Make a date and stick with it. If you’re looking for a team to start running with, #JoinTheTribe!

3. Learn a New Hobby (or Pick Up An Old One).

Winter is a great season for outdoor sports! Whether you are learning one for the first time or revisiting one from your past so much fun can be had on the hills, or around them. Downhill and cross-country skiing, snowboarding, snow shoeing, and ice skating are all great snow-based activities that are a lot of fun even for beginners. If this is your first time on the slopes or on the ice, consider taking lessons, either weekly or one off, to learn from a pro and be successful from the start.

4. Start Simple: Walk.

If you haven’t been active in winters past, walking is a great way to start moving and get used to the cold. There’s no need to wait after work hours, consider starting a noon hour walking club at work and get outdoors during your lunch. Make sure you are dressed for the weather!

5. Play!

Take a hint from the kids (either yours or someone else’s) and just go outside and play! Build a snowman, throw a snow ball, get a move on, and have some fun! Playing outside is fun at any age.