Hike or bike trails to explore the great outdoors. Photo courtesy Shutterstock.

Exploring the great outdoors can be a springboard to better health, says Dr. Mary Reimer, director of the Reimer Wellness Center in Palo Alto, California.

For starters, drink plenty of water and stretch before being active. Then, slather on the sunscreen. Finally, jump-start your healthiest year ever with Dr. Reimer’s tips for day trips that leave you energized—not exhausted!

1. Explore new places. Scope out choice destinations via bike and hike paths. Resist the urge to see as many things as possible from the car.

2. Enjoy new activities. Pack up the kids and play beach volleyball or tackle an outdoor adventure course. Alternatively, sign up for a yoga retreat, or plant the garden or flower bed you’ve always wanted.

3. Eat new foods. While you are out and about, discover tasty seasonal snacks (and save calories) at farmers markets and produce stands—not at the gas station. When eating out, watch portion sizes and savor a variety of local flavors by sharing entrees with family members or ordering smaller appetizers.

For more about outdoor fun, see Get Out, Get Fit.

Ready, Set, Get Moving! The Saturday Evening Post

Size up these fresh ideas from the American Chemical Society to go “green” in 2011 and beyond.

1. Stop wasting food. Scientists say that producing (and purchasing) foods more wisely could save the energy equivalent of 350 million barrels of oil—and without spending a penny or putting a ding in our quality of life. It takes the equivalent of about 1.4 billion barrels of oil to produce, package, prepare, preserve, and distribute a year’s worth of food in the United States.  But research shows we waste about 25 percent of it.
2. Take five. Walking in parks or on outdoor trails for just five minutes can improve mood and self-esteem, according to recent findings. Bicycling or fishing also improve mental health, notes study authors who add that exercising in view of rivers, lakes, or streams seems to provide an extra boost.
3. Ride the train. An ACS study shows that cars adversely impact the environment at a rate that is four to five times higher than do passenger trains. You’ll get extra exercise if it’s possible to walk to the train station, too.
4. Find out about eo-friendly cremations and burials. People who care about improving the environment in life may soon be able to do so after death. European entrepreneurs have developed new methods of body disposal — including a low-heat cremation method— that could provide alternatives to those now in use.
5. Use those “no-mix” toilets. A new toilet that could substantially reduce pollution and conserve water is gaining popularity in Europe, report scientists in Switzerland. “NoMix” toilets collect and dispose of liquid and solid wastes separately.

5 Resolutions for Green Living The Saturday Evening Post