Healthy living is something that we all aspire to, but often think we can’t achieve. This could be due to budget, time, or just not knowing where to start. Well, as it turns out, being healthy doesn’t have to be some massive lifestyle overhaul. Small, deliberate changes will make a big difference.
The Merrimack Valley is thankfully no stranger to healthy living. From fresh food to beautiful outdoor activities, you’ll have your pick of ways to stay healthy and happy.
Farm Fresh Food
What we eat is incredibly important to our health. From suggested portion sizes to recommended nutrient intakes, a healthy diet generally keeps your body strong. Yes, it’s ok to eat fast food once in a while as a treat, but for the majority of the week, you should make sure your meals feature fresh fruits and vegetables, as well as healthy proteins, fats, and other nutrients.
Eating healthy is easy when you can stop by Verrill Farm for fresh-grown produce and delicious meals. The farm stand is open year-round, seven days a week, and features seasonal produce sustainably grown on the 200 acres of farmland. Depending on the time of year, enjoy fresh beans, beets, tomatoes, strawberries, peppers, peas, and more! The stand also features artisanal local products from the community, like cheese.
Don’t have time to prepare your own fresh, healthy meals? Every day the chefs at the Verrill Farm kitchen prepare delicious soups, entrees, salads, and side dishes with the farm’s fresh produce. Or you could stop by the deli for a hearty, nutritional wrap or sandwich. If you’re craving a sweet treat, the bakery has homemade pies, fruit tarts, and other goodies you can indulge in for dessert. Healthy living doesn’t have to mean sugar-free, after all.
Get Outside and Active
Another key aspect to living healthy is spending time outside and being active. Studies have been done on how fresh air can help you breathe and sleep better, as well as reduce depression and improve your physical health. Exercise is of course vital to keeping our bodies strong and also benefits our mental health. That’s why, especially as the weather turns nice, you should take time to get outdoors and enjoy the benefits of nature.
There are few better places to do this than Walden Pond State Reservation. For just a $5 parking fee, you can go boating, fishing, hiking, swimming, and more. Be sure to take a stroll around Walden Pond much like famous author Henry David Thoreau did back when he spent two years, two months, and two days discovering the virtues of simple living. You can even see a replica of his cabin!
Living healthy isn’t as hard as it seems. Eating fresh fruits and vegetables, getting outside for a walk, and just being mindful of why it’s important to take care of yourself will all result in a better, healthier you.