As daylight saving time draws to a close this Sunday, the days are growing shorter, and the early evening light will soon be a memory. With sunset times shifting earlier, now is your last chance to soak up the last bits of sunlight. Before the evenings become darker and cooler, here are some simple ways to make the most of the week ahead, boost your wellbeing, and embrace the season’s change.
Take an Evening Stroll
The beauty of daylight saving is the extra daylight it provides in the early evening, so take advantage of it with a brisk walk. A quick 20-minute stroll around your neighborhood or a nearby park can help clear your mind and reduce stress. You don’t need to be training for a marathon to feel the benefits – it’s about reconnecting with the world around you. If you bring along your dog, even better! Spending time with pets can be calming and a great way to unwind while enjoying the fresh air. These short walks are a perfect way to reset after a busy day.
Outdoor Games for Kids
Go outside with the kids, take advantage of the longer afternoons and get them involved in some outdoor fun. Head to your local park for some playtime. Whether it’s swinging, sliding, or running around, the park provides a great setting for kids to get active and burn off some energy. You can join in the fun or simply sit back and enjoy watching them play.
Another fun activity for kids is a simple scavenger hunt. Set up a list of items for them to find around the yard or park, like certain types of leaves, rocks, or flowers, and let them explore. It’s a great way to keep them engaged with nature while getting them moving.
Connect Over a Drink
Before the clock shifts, it’s a great time to enjoy the last of the sun with friends, family, or a partner. Head to a local bar or café for a casual drink, whether it’s an alcoholic beverage or an ice cream. Catching up with someone in person can break up your routine, relieve stress, and give you something enjoyable to look forward to. Social connections are important for maintaining positive mental health, and taking time to engage with others can help you feel more grounded and less isolated.
Get Your Hands in the Dirt
Tending to a small garden or even a few pots on a balcony is an easy way to reap mental benefits. Gardening doesn’t require an expert touch – it’s about grounding yourself and reconnecting with nature. Whether you have a sprawling garden or just a few indoor plants, the act of caring for something and spending time outdoors can significantly reduce stress. Use this week to embrace the tranquility of gardening and the joy of nurturing life.
Engage in Fun, Active Recreation
Instead of hitting the gym for another treadmill session, why not switch it up with something more social and fun? Playing a game of tennis, Frisbee, or petanque offers a mental break and a chance to connect with others while being active outdoors. Engaging in recreational activities is a great way to stay fit, relax, and enjoy the company of friends and family. These activities also provide a refreshing alternative to the isolation that can come with solo workouts.
Pause and Watch the Sunset
As the days get shorter, make it a point to stop and watch the sunset. It’s easy to rush through the evening without pausing to appreciate the beauty around us, but taking a moment to inhale the crisp evening air and take in the sunset can offer a welcome sense of peace.
For an iconic sunset view in Sydney, head to the North Bondi Grassy Knoll. This spot offers gentle grassy slopes for lounging and is the perfect place to take in the stunning views of the sun setting over Bondi Beach, all while enjoying the vibrant, electric atmosphere of the area.
If you’re in Coogee, consider heading to the north end of the beach near the headlands, where you’ll be treated to panoramic sunset views. Alternatively, enjoy the sunset while walking along the Bondi to Coogee coastal walk, where the changing light transforms the scenery into something truly breathtaking.
The end of daylight saving time can be an adjustment, so be kind to yourself as you transition. It’s normal to need a little time to adjust to the shift, and giving yourself a couple of weeks to settle in will help make the change feel easier. Make the most of these final moments of extended daylight and use them to refresh both your body and mind.
