Let's take a moment to think about something other than the rising cost of fuel oil. Yes, it is concerning; yes, it is a problem, but there is more to life than worrying about fuel oil. We will have plenty of time for that once winter hits. For now, let's try to enjoy all that summer has to offer. Let us be present in the moment.
Summer has many extraordinary and awe inspiring aspects, not to mention the multitude of activities one can enjoy this time of year. Excitement can be found in even the most simple of tasks, like mowing lawn and gardening. After months of hard work, we are finally able to harvest fresh vegetables and savor them raw from the garden or in dinners, casseroles, and baked goods. How proud we feel when we can say, "I grew the ingredients for this meal" and "I created my own compost for this garden."
And for those of us who are concerned about our health and fitness, keep in mind that an hour of gardening for the average 150-pound person burns 272 calories.
A few interesting caloric tidbits for a 150-pound person per hour of activity: Chopping wood burns 408 calories, yard work burns 340, camping burns 170, horseback riding burns 272, hauling branches burns 340, hiking and swimming each burn 408, canoeing burns 238, and even attending that beloved (or dreaded, as families go) family reunion burns 102 calories per hour.
Remember that in order to lose one pound, one must burn 3,500 calories more than they take in. Now is a great time to indulge in fresh vegetables from the garden! Just be sure to wash or soak veggies or you may end up with a mouthful of worm in your broccoli; those little critters blend right in with their surroundings and will add calories to your diet.
Back to my point. If you've never tried horseback riding or whitewater rafting, you might want to consider these activities. Canoeing and kayaking are also fun activities that offer workout-type benefits minus the remarkably distinct gym locker room odor. If your speed is more low-key, try a light hike or sit on the edge of the river and dangle your feet in the water. Try yoga or stretching outdoors on your mat.
Camping is also a great family or solo activity. I would, however, advise against hiking several miles into the woods with your dog, expecting to sleep through the night in a tent if the dog is afraid of the dark. Been there, done that. Flashlight batteries never last as long as you hope they will.
The benefits of being outdoors are significant. We can exercise and play, learn about plants and animals, absorb nature and the environment around us, and stay healthy. Studies have proven that Vitamin D is an important nutrient to the human body. The Vitamin D Council states that osteoporosis, heart disease, hypertension, autoimmune diseases, certain cancers, depression, influenza, chronic fatigue, and chronic pain are associated with Vitamin D deficiency.
How does one get an adequate supply of Vitamin D? Simply put Ñ sunshine! (Disclaimer: Seek physician assistance for severe cases.)
Shut off the TV and put down the phone. Reconsider that text message or e-mail; opt for a walk or bike ride to see that friend or family member instead. Feel inspired to get outdoors. Enjoy the summer while it lasts!
Lissa Stark works for the Bennington County Regional Commission. She serves on the Board of Supervisors of the Bennington County Conservation District, whose mission is promoting rural livelihoods and protecting natural resources in Southwestern Vermont.
This column appeared in the Bennington Banner in August 2008, as one of the BCCD's Conservation Currents pieces, a bi-weekly feature written by BCCD board and staff members since August 2006.