When Nature Is Out of Reach: Moving Gently Indoors

Are you stuck inside?

The heat index in our corner of North Carolina has hovered between 105 and 115 degrees for over a week. Before that, we were caught in an extended cycle of near-100 degree heat and daily thunderstorms. Who was it that said there’s no such thing as global warming? We’re not the only ones feeling it this summer.

One of the hardest parts of coping with this kind of intense heat is the inability to spend time outside—to walk, play, garden, or simply enjoy nature. These aren’t just leisure activities—they’re essential. They help us stay grounded, healthy, and connected to something larger than ourselves.

So, in the spirit of making the best of what we can control, here’s a list of indoor movement ideas I’m keeping in mind to help me stay centered, sane, and healthy during this seemingly endless summer—one I wish were just a movie.

GROUNDING MOVEMENT

WHEN YOU’RE STUCK INSIDE

Gentle, grounding movements you can do indoors—especially when it’s too hot, too much, or too hard to leave home.

Soften + Energize (2–10 minutes)

– Vacuum slowly, paired with calming music
– Gentle pacing through a room or hallway
– Reach & stretch while folding laundry or tidying
– Roll your shoulders forward and back
– Shake your hands, arms, hips, or legs to release tension
– Rock in a chair to soothe your nervous system

Mood-Boosting Movement

– Dance to one favorite song
– Chair dancing (yes, it counts!)
– Wall push-ups or kitchen counter stretches
– March in place for 1 minute with deep, slow breaths

Calming & Grounding

– Sit on the floor and sway side to side
– Lie down and hug knees to chest; gently rock
– Stretch arms overhead, then slowly exhale and lower
– Stand with one hand on heart, one on belly; shift weight side to side

You don’t have to do them all. One small movement is enough. Remind yourself that these are invitations, not expectations. We’ll get through this summer.

YOU MIGHT ALSO ENJOY

A Grounding Place

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