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A spinal cord injury doesn’t have to mean an end to having a good time. Of course, the activities you can participate in will depend on your injuries’ extent and severity. However, most SCI survivors will be able to enjoy some of the activities on this list. Keeping your spirits up is essential while going through your spinal cord injury recovery, and taking part in fun activities can help you see that all is not lost. So here are a few things you can try depending on what sort of hobby you consider fun.
Hanging out in the pool can be a great activity during spinal cord injury recovery. Water creates a feeling of weightlessness, which can offer you a little more mobility. While you will definitely want to have a loved one with you for safety, not only can a pool be fun, but it can also be a great place to get some exercise. For example, you may be able to practice your balance in the pool or take a water aerobics class.
Bowling is a popular pastime for families and individuals. Remember that you may have to use a lighter ball than you used to. It could lead to back pain if you try to swing a ball that is too heavy. However, you can usually find a bowling ball at an alley that is about six pounds. This is an excellent way to have fun and get some exercise for your arm at the same time.
You will have to adapt your swing, and this can be challenging at first, but don’t give up! Finding an effective swing can also help you to practice your balance.
As an alternative, if you really struggle to find an efficient way to roll the ball down the alley, you can adapt your wheelchair with a ball ramp. Then all you have to do is wheel your way up to the line and push the ball down the ramp. Either way, this is an excellent method to get out of the house and have some fun with your family or friends.
A lot of dancing involves moving the upper half of the body, so don’t be afraid to get out on the dance floor and move as much as you can. You may find that dancing is an activity you really enjoy. Once again, this is a fun hobby that will also get you some exercise and help you work on your balance.
Additionally, dancing stimulates the spinal cord. This can be good for your central nervous system in general, and it may work in harmony with your spinal cord injury recovery efforts. The more you train your body to make neuroadaptive adjustments, the easier it will be to learn new ways to do the things you enjoy.
If you live with paraplegia in the wake of an SCI, you want to take up hobbies or sports that utilize your upper body. This will help maintain your upper body strength while also providing you an enjoyable pastime. Archery is one such hobby or sport that can activate the upper body and stimulate your mind.
There is actually a study to back up how good archery is for someone living with paraplegia. It helps to strengthen your arms and shoulders but also your core. This is crucial for proper balance. You also improve your hand-eye coordination.
Even if you lack sensation in your hands due to your injury, you may be able to take up archery. There are specialized gloves that meet this very purpose. So this another activity that can improve your health and help your recovery while also offering some enjoyment.
You want to exercise your body to help with your spinal cord injury recovery. However, exercising your mind is also essential. Reading a good book can both be an enjoyable activity and a way to focus your thoughts. Unfortunately, the mind can be plagued by negative thoughts when you are dealing with long-term recovery due to trauma. So training your brain to focus is vital, and a good book can help.
If you like fiction, focus on authors and stories that are likely to have a happy ending. You don’t want your recreation bringing you down. If you prefer non-fiction, focus on learning new things. Whether your book teaches you about history, science, or another topic like this, just be sure not to spend all of your time reading about your condition or another medical subject.
You want to separate your recreation time from your injury. Of course, it is still appropriate to read about medical topics and learn more about your condition. However, it would be best if you were selective about what you read. We have just the thing for SCI survivors.
If you read one book about your injury and recovery, it should be our eBook: 7 Unbelievably Important Steps to Take to Thrive after Paralysis. This book can help you prepare mentally for the challenges and successes that will occur during your recovery journey. Your life may be different than it was before the injury, but you can still enjoy activities like the ones we’ve mentioned here and so much more! Get the encouragement you need to get started down the path to recovery.
Grab our free e-book 7 Unbelievably Important Steps to Take to THRIVE after Paralysis by clicking the image below.
