VALLEY CITY, N.D. (ON THE MOVE) – The following is a news release from Valley City’s ON THE MOVE.

“ON THE MOVE Outdoor Adventure Day is set for Saturday, February 12 from 1:00 pm to 3:00 pm. People of all ages are invited to bring their own sleds to Charlie Brown hill. The Valley City Fire Department will have a fire pit located along the Jefferson School mile walking path. Free hot chocolate and cider will be offered along Central Avenue near Jefferson School. Depending on the weather and snow conditions, ON THE MOVE will provide an area for snowman building and another area to fly kites. Girl Scouts Troop 31027 will help you make a snow volcano. This activity will be located on the walking path near the Youth Sport Complex.

“This is a great time of year to get outside!  Find your own way to get moving in our chilly winters.  I am looking forward to our Outdoor Adventure with ON THE MOVE and this new event!” states Emma Tufte, ON THE MOVE program assistant at City County Health District office in Valley City.

There are so many benefits to spending time outdoors in the winter. Taking a winter walk or building a snowman in your yard can offer a variety of health benefits not only for your physical health but also your mental health. Adults need at least 30 minutes of physical activity on 5 days of the week while kids and teens should get 60 minutes each day. Research has shown that walking just 30 minutes a day can help reduce your risk of coronary heart disease and stroke; improve your blood pressure, blood sugar levels and cholesterol levels; maintain your body weight and lower the risk of obesity.

Spending time outdoors, no matter the season, can help improve creativity and focus as well as help with mental health. With cold weather and shorter amounts of daylight, you may feel cooped up this winter. Something as simple as taking a short walk each day can drastically improve your mood and make the cold winter days brighter and happier.

For more information about the Outdoor Adventure Day, please call City-County Health District at 845-8518 and ask for ON THE MOVE.”