After being closed for more than three months due to the Covid-19 pandemic, Walt Disney World is finally ready to welcome back guests. The Magic Kingdom and Animal Kingdom are set to reopen on 11 July 2020, with Epcot and Disney’s Hollywood Studios reopening on July 15. While Disney has become synonymous with calorie-laden fair food and sugary treats, a trip to Disney World does not have to wreak havoc with your healthy lifestyle. In fact, there are a number of ways a trip to Disney World can benefit your overall health and well-being.
You will reach your daily step goal with ease
On average, a fairly active person walks anywhere between 5,000 and 7,000 steps in a day. The average guest at Disney World, however, walks anywhere between 12,000 and 18,000 steps in a day – more than double than what you would walk on a typical day at home or at the office. The great thing about walking at Disney World is that you won't even realize how many steps you're taking. There is just so much to see and do that you won’t even have time to feel tired until later when you return home and the excitement fades away. And if all the unintentional steps you're taking aren't enough, you can increase your step count even more by steering clear of any shortcuts and taking longer, scenic routes wherever possible.
Your mental health will get a boost
Although physical health is of great importance, so too is your mental health. After being cooped up during lockdown, a trip to Disney World will undoubtedly do wonders for your mental health. Bonding with friends and family, getting exercise, and being outdoors will definitely boost your serotonin levels, which will leave you feeling happy and invigorated. A bout of shopping is also bound to boost your contentment even more. If you weren’t able to squeeze in enough shopping during your trip to Disney World, you can always sign up for a themed subscription box service to keep the magic alive at home. There are a number of boxes that will see a range of theme park goodies delivered right to the doorstep of any Disney fan.
There are many healthy food options
Yes, you can eat your weight in Mickey Bars, churros and corn dogs, but there is also a very large variety of healthy food options available at Disney World. Start your day with a healthy, protein-rich breakfast that will provide you with enough fuel for the day ahead. The Be Our Guest Restaurant at the Magic Kingdom is renowned for their healthier breakfast options, which include gourmet scrambled eggs and to-die-for pork sausages and fresh fruit. Although there is no harm in having a small treat or two during the day, you do not have to feel forced to indulge in overly sweet or oily snacks. Instead, head over to the Liberty Square Market or Prince Eric's Village Market, where you can pick up anything from fresh fruit and veggies to cheese, nuts and even turkey legs. For dinner you can choose between a multitude of options that include the Japanese pavilion in Epcot, Restaurant Marrakesh, and the ever-delightful Tangierine Café, also in Epcot.