It’s something we can all use right now. For many people, the pandemic hasn’t been helpful when it comes to fitness, nutrition or mental health. We’ve been eating more (and less mindfully), moving less and struggling to stay motivated.

Start small
There’s plenty you can do to enjoy some fresh air on sunny fall days, even during the work week. Aim to head outside for a short walk on your lunch break. Every little bit of activity counts – even a 10-minute stroll over your coffee break has benefits for your body and your mental health.

If you’re working from home, don’t sit for hours on end. Take short breaks during the day and head outside for 10 minutes to do whatever needs some attention in your space: weed, sweep the porch, put away the patio furniture, stack wood, rake leaves – it all adds up!

Support local producers
Fall is the best time to visit a farm in your area. Get lost in a corn maze, learn where your food comes from and get your hands dirty picking whatever is fresh and in season, like apples, pumpkins and squash. Check out the list of u-picks across Nova Scotia.

Enjoy the fall colours outside
If you usually go for a drive to enjoy the fall colours, opt for bike ride or a walk instead. You’ll find easy and accessible trails dotted across the province, including many rail-to-trail paths. Check out the Cycle Nova Scotia website for maps and info on the best bike routes.

Spending time in nature is good for your mental health – boosting your memory, improving cardiovascular health and helping you live longer.

Try a new trail
If you’re looking for a longer excursion, visit the Halifax Trails website for videos, maps and instructions for over 100 trails across Nova Scotia. The website sorts hikes by length and difficulty, and notes if they’re wheelchair accessible, on a bus route or dog-friendly.

Connect with others
If you’re looking to meet others interested in walking or hiking, consider joining NS Walks and connect with a local walking group in your community. This fall, Hike Nova Scotia has partnered with local organizations to host a guided walk series until the end of November.

Twenty-eight walks, led by local experts, are taking place in communities across the province, with participants qualifying to win trail prizes. These free or low-cost walks do require pre-registration and participants must follow public health protocols.

How are you staying active this fall? Tell us about it in the comment section below.

Nova Scotia quick links

Drop-in vaccination clinics in Nova Scotia
Getting vaccinated against COVID-19
List of COVID-19 exposures in Nova Scotia
Getting tested for COVID-19
Public Health mobile testing unit locations
Rapid testing locations
Self-isolating guidelines
Mental health and well-being
Nova Scotia COVID-19 resources
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