Birdwatching is one of the most gratifying activities for retirees to participate in. As we grow older, birdwatching can keep our minds attentive as we focus on nature’s beauty. Do you know that being outside in nature can help reduce feelings of stress, anxiety, and anger? Additionally, research has shown that birdwatching can improve our mental well-being and provide us with health benefits like lowering blood pressure, and reducing muscle tension and stress hormone production. Engaging in birdwatching during retirement can fill your time meaningfully. Find out more about the mental and physical health benefits of birdwatching for seniors!
Spend Time Outdoors
Instead of staying home all the time, birdwatching can bring you outdoors to enjoy a change of scenery. Going outdoors and spending time in nature gives you the opportunity to inhale the fresh air, enjoy the sunlight needed for your body to produce the much-needed vitamin D, and get your body active and moving.
Stay in Shape
If you realize that you have been increasingly sedentary, birdwatching may just be the hobby you should consider picking up. Birdwatching can keep your body in motion and help you to stay fit and healthy. Birdwatching is not a strenuous physical activity so anyone can enjoy it.
Birdwatch from Anywhere
Birdwatching is not limited to outdoor spaces. You can also engage in birdwatching in the comfort of your home. If you have limited mobility, you can enjoy this activity from your bed by simply turning the bed to face a window and hanging a bird feeder on a nearby tree. Then, lay back, relax, and wait patiently before the birds come by to have a treat.
Keep Your Mind Sharp
Being able to identify a bird by its bird song, differentiate the male and female birds from their minute differences and recognizing similarities in their behaviors ensure that your mind is stimulated, alert and kept sharp. Having the patience to await the appearance of certain birds can also cultivate a resilient mind.
Alleviate Unwanted Feelings
Being close to nature and birds can encourage mindfulness, reflection, and meditation for seniors. It has been proven that being immersed in nature can improve your state of mind and transport you to a calm and healthier mental environment. If you are experiencing negative emotions or feelings such as fear, anxiety, or stress, try going for a nature walk and doing some birdwatching to get rid of them!
Get Closer to Your Loved Ones
Birdwatching is an activity that is enjoyable for people of all ages. How about asking your loved ones to join you so your family can spend some meaningful time together? You can even turn birdwatching into a weekly or monthly activity for your family! While the adults sit around and chat with one another, you can teach your grandkids to identify different types of birds and show them how to observe details. Being able to witness your grandkids’ happiness and excitement when they spot rare species is a great way to enjoy shared experiences together.