Posted on 1 Comment

Summer Picnic for the Chronically Ill

It is finally time for those summer picnics. Well, actually any time is a good time for a picnic, especially for those with chronic illness. It is a well-needed change of pace. Keep your summer picnics easy so they are doable. Go do it!!!!!

We need a change of pace, different scenery, fresh air & sunshine while we are chronically ill. But, problem is, it is easier said than done. So let’s keep this simple.

Plan a summer picnic that you can handle.

Where…

What are YOU capable of? Can you get on a passenger train to get to a scenic location a few miles away? Can you get in a vehicle to get to a local park? Just can’t do those, there are always other options.

What about your yard/porch/balcony/courtyard where you live? Make it a big adventure to get out of your home and in your outdoor space where you live.

That still is not doable for you?? Relocate your body to any location in your home other than your bed or sofa. Use cushions to create a comfortable place to sit or lay down other than your typical bed or sofa. Add candles and turn up the music and make the different space a special occasion.

Are you bed-bound and cannot get out of bed? Get a special blanket and a straw hat!!!! Serious, find something different to put in your bed and on your body so you can make this a summer picnic. You can do it!! It is okay to ask for help from anyone willing to do anything for you.

When…

Weather is usually the biggest deal with summer picnics. If the summer heat gets to you, plan an early morning breakfast summer picnic.

If you are bed-bound, plan a time when you can get some help from someone you would like to picnic with!!

Who…

I have gone on picnics all by myself just to be able to do something different during the years of boredom of illness. To keep me outside longer I have taken a book or my computer.

Better yet… If you have someone you enjoy, have them take you. If your family is willing, have them join you. If you know anyone who is ill or lonely, invite them to go with you.

Prepare…

You already know that a summer picnic would be good for you but will drain your energy. Prepare everything you can for the picnic ahead of time. The day of the picnic, your only goal is to show up and enjoy.

Most summer picnics are warm and sticky and a bit messy. Taking your shower the day before will help you reserve your energy for the big day. When you get home after the picnic, climb into a soothing bath to clean up and relax you from an eventful (but fun) day.

How…

Just do it!!! I know, easier said than done. Ditch the excuses. Ditch the “I can’t” and give it a go!!!!

Keep things simple and within reason so that you can expect success and see what happens.

What To Eat…

Again, keep it simple or the summer picnic will never happen.

Fruit and nuts are as simple as it gets –

Your local farmer’s market or grocery store will have a variety of fresh organic fruit. Experiment with a couple of fruits that you have never tasted before, along with your favorites. Then add some nuts to reduce blood sugar spikes.

Olive platter is fun, add cheese if you can eat dairy (raw and organic cheese is preferable).

Some larger grocery stores have an “olive bar” that will let you select a variety of olives at any quantity.

Italian simple: mozzarella slices with fresh tomato slices and fresh basil leaves

Salad with nuts and seeds is healthy, tasty and easy to take on a picnic

Mexican Flare – Tortillas, Chips and Salsa, the healthy version that taste just as good. (These are less expensive if you can find them in a grocery store)

“Sandwiches” or rolls made with gluten-free wraps

Mayo healthy options…

Meat & Seafood options…

Barbecue – very popular food fare

Use organic grass-fed meats. Make it even more friendly for your gut and use healthy sauces and marinades. This type of product is usually filled with sweeteners, chemicals, fillers, preservatives and grain (gluten) products. Replace with the healthy version, worth every penny.

Drinks – make sure you take drinks that will hydrate you and that you enjoy.

Okie dokie, what is YOUR summer picnic plan? How, when, where, what to eat are all factors but the biggest obstacle is usually realizing that it is possible.

AFFILIATE DISCLOSURE:  In order for me to support my blogging and social media activities, I may receive monetary compensation for links to products from this post. However, I only recommend products that I personally love and use myself. If it is not good enough for me, it certainly is not good enough for you!!

HEALTH COACH DISCLAIMER:  Health/Wellness coaching is not intended to diagnose, treat, prevent or cure any disease or condition. It is not intended to substitute for the advice, treatment and/or diagnosis of a qualified licensed professional. Trained and certified Health Coaches may not make any medical diagnoses, claims and/or substitute for your personal physician’s care. As your health/wellness coach I do not provide a second opinion or in any way attempt to alter the treatment plans or therapeutic goals/recommendations of your personal physician. It is my role to partner with you to provide ongoing support and accountability as you create an action plan to meet and maintain your health goals.

1 thought on “Summer Picnic for the Chronically Ill

  1. […] your body with sunshine, fresh air, tasty healthy food and good company. For more details, visit Summer Picnic for the Chronically Ill. Lots of food suggestions for a summer picnic that you can […]

Share your thoughts...

This site uses Akismet to reduce spam. Learn how your comment data is processed.