Take a few minutes each day for yourself and your health

Guest Commentary:

It is so beautiful outside. Yesterday afternoon, I had the opportunity to get outside with friends and paddle board the Kootenai River (with a life jacket on of course). Paddling the river allowed me an alternative view of the mountains, to experience all the pretty colors and eagles flying above in a very peaceful environment. The quiet was a relaxing and calming mid-day break which allowed my afternoon to be more productive. This opportunity to enjoy the outdoors with convenience is one of the main reasons I enjoy living in Libby.  

You might not be able to get into the outdoors in the middle of your day, but let’s make time to enjoy beautiful northwest Montana on our feet, in a boat or on a bike. There are a ton of free opportunities all around us encouraging us to get more active in the outdoors. If you are unsure of what to do and where to go, let me provide you with a few ideas.

Let’s hike. Grab a friend, your dog or family members and hit the trails. You do not have to drive a half hour or more into the mountains, there are trails and paths within 10 to 15 minutes of town center.  

J. Neils Park has a fantastic trail that winds the perimeter of the park. This 1.5 mile trail is super convenient and it does not even feel like you are in town. Take a 30 minute walk during your lunch break and then sit at a picnic table to eat a healthy packed lunch you made for yourself. Unwind and breathe before heading back to the office.

Kootenai River has a gravel trail with access at the end of the Kootenai River Road. Take a walk, run or bring your mountain bike and enjoy the views from this gentle trail following the river. Check out the eagles, maybe stop and do a little fishing, too.  

Heck, let’s just take a walk through town. Grab a friend or two and hit the streets. There are beautiful views right in town, too. Don’t let anything stop you from committing to your walk, even if you need to cut your walk or jog short, a 10-15 minute walk can boost your mood.

Don’t put your bikes away for the winter too soon. There are still many opportunities to get out on the road or trails. Let’s take a ride down the Haul Road; it’s a quiet road with beautiful views. It is super easy to access from town. Farm to Market is another road worth biking. It has a bit more traffic, but the views are out of this world especially by the airport. If mountain biking is more your thing, check out Swede Mountain. This moderate trail has stunning views and gets you away from car traffic 

Let’s paddle, not float. Get out on the water. Grab your boards, kayaks, canoes, raft, boat or whatever floating craft you own and head to a lake or river. Now floating does not really count as exercise, you have to actually paddle to get some health benefits. Wear your life jackets and maybe take a few breaks to do a little fishing.  

We are lucky, lucky to live in a place that is surrounded by beautiful scenery and endless recreational opportunities. You might be aware of some of the trails that I mentioned above, but we tend to forget. We forget how lucky we are and how convenient it is to get moving and stay active in this community. Take the time. take time for yourself because if you take care of you, you will be around a lot longer for the ones you love and care about. It is easy to forget or find something else in your life to do. Make yourself number one. You are worth it.

Liz Whalen is a personal trainer and health fitness specialist who lives and works in Libby. She also blogs at lizwhalenhfs.com.