Affordable Fall Fun

Fall is here! School has started, the air is crisp, and Thanksgiving is almost upon us.
 
Before (dare we mention?) the long days of winter hit, take some time to improve your mental well-being and spend some time with family and friends.
 
Here 4 ways to improve your mental health AND some great, affordable family activities for a weekend. *BONUS* they're affordable too!
 
 

4 Ways to Improve Your Mental Health

Your mental health has a significant impact on your daily life. It also impacts how you handle various stresses that come your way. Devoting the time and effort to improve your mental health can not only help you feel more relaxed and happier, but can directly impact your physical health as well.
 

Here are 4 simple ways to start improving your life today:

1. Connect with other people. Surround yourself with people who think positive, have some of the same goals and aspirations in life, and of course, those you love. Also, try to meet in person and not rely on Social Media, even if you have to physical distance.
 

2. Be physically active. You don't necessarily have to work out! Gardening, walking with friends, playing with the kids or dog can help clear your mind and cause chemical changes that positively affect your mood.
 

3. Take control of your finances. Financial stress has been linked to anxiety, depression and even substance abuse. Improve your financial literacy and improve your life. Not sure how to start? Book a free financial strategy call with Jadan Mendez. He'll help you determine your next steps.
 

4. Be kind. Research has shown that treating others with kindness and sharing can improve your feeling of well-being and worth. It also has the added benefit of helping you connect with others.
 

7 Fun Fall Activities

1. Enjoy the Show. The fall colours are emerging, and there's no better way to enjoy them than going for a hike. It's great for you physically and your mental well-being.
 

2. Pumpkin Picking. Know any young children? Take them to pick out their own pumpkin! Then, of course, you can either bake a pumpkin pie or carve it.
 

3. Picnic at the Park. Don't make it bland; make it grand! Pack along the BBQ, games like Volleyball and Bocce Ball, and (if your region permits) invite some friends.
 

4. Be a Local Tourist. You'd be surprised at how many things there are to see and do in your hometown, from quaint local shops to historical destinations. Sound too dull for the kids? Try a photo scavenger hunt.
 

5. Geocaching. Change a simple hike into a treasure hunt. Geocaching is a great way to get kids of all ages excited about getting outdoors. Learn all about it and how even to start your own geocache here.
 

6. Expand Your Horizons. It's a new season, so why not learn something new? Many of us have a list of things we've always wanted to try, like how to smoke the perfect brisket or paint a modern masterpiece. Now's as good a time as any.
 

7. Staycation. Yes, I know. To some, staying at home doesn't sound like a vacation, but it depends on how you spend it. Try actually relaxing - read that book you've always promised yourself you'd get to, engage in local activities like golf, the farmers market, or eat out at a local restaurant. Staycations can be the ultimate relaxation and can save you hundreds of dollars in travel and lodging.