Low-Energy Activities for Summer Fun
Summer is the season of “fun in the sun.” But what happens when multiple sclerosis (MS) makes you fear the sun? Hot summer days can trigger even more fatigue, not to mention other symptoms. Do you still get to have fun in the summer?1
I never like to miss out, and I don’t want you to either. So I put my thinking cap on for some low-energy activities that can help you escape the heat, but not the fun.
My top 10 activities
Movie theaters
I find myself laughing a bit at this suggestion because I’m known for falling asleep during movies. It doesn’t matter if I’m home on the couch or in a movie theater. However, on days when I want to get out but don’t want a lot of activity, a movie theater can offer the perfect fix. They also tend to be air-conditioned, so it’s an escape from the summer heat.
Book clubs
Book clubs tend to offer low-key gatherings, as they’re often held in a home setting or online. I also love the fact that I can “read” the audiobook if I choose.
Reading is especially nice to create a routine around. At the end of the day, it can be nice to sit and read or have a book read to you. Once you’ve finished the book, you can gather with friends to discuss. If you’re interested in joining a book club, you can search for local meetups, check online, or even start your own.
Painting classes
This was an idea I got from a fellow member of the MS community. She has a lot of physical limitations, but she’s found painting to be extremely therapeutic and something she can do year-round. She’s had so much fun with it that she decided to sell some of her work to her neighbors. Painting classes are available in person or online.
Knitting or crocheting
My grandmother taught me how to crochet when I was younger, and I wish I remembered how to do it. It’s on my bucket list to relearn. I like the concept that you can do a little bit at a time, so you can match your level of activity with your energy level. The beauty of this skill is that you can also create some nice things that you can gift to family and friends for holidays and celebrations.
Memory/photobooks
Lots of us have hundreds or even thousands of photos stored on our phones or in the cloud, unfortunately never to be passed down to the next generation. Creating memory or photobooks can be a great way to keep memories alive for generations to come!
Bird watching
This is such a quiet and peaceful activity. Best of all, it’s one that requires you to stay still and quiet, so you’re at no disadvantage if you’re having a low-energy day. Simply grab a comfortable chair and a pair of binoculars, and you’re all set.
Aquatic classes
So many of our community members here love aquatic classes. They’re a great way to stay physically active with not a lot of impact or risk for balance issues. So this summer, if you can, sign up for a group class to enjoy with friends.
Accessible gardening
Gardening can be adapted in so many ways. There are raised beds, container gardening, and even those fancy indoor hydroponic systems. All these adaptations give you the opportunity to get your hands in some dirt and watch nature grow.
Photography
This is another one on my bucket list. I have the camera, not to mention my camera phone. I even purchased a basic photography class. I just haven’t made it happen yet. But there's no time like the present.
Puzzles
This might just be the simplest of them all. It’s inexpensive and can be done alone or with family or friends. It’s fun for all.
Share your favorite activities
Did any of these activities spark your interest? Did I leave out your favorite activity? Please share in the comments below. We love hearing from you. Our collective knowledge is what makes our community so strong!
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