If you spend most of your time indoors and find yourself yearning for a little bit of sunshine, fresh air, and natural beauty, it might be time for you to reconnect with nature! Put aside your digital devices or turn off the television and head out for a walk. You can visit your local park or simply step into your outdoor garden. Several studies have shown the health benefits and boost in quality of life that nature can provide for seniors. If you are looking to feel healthier and happier in your 60s, there is no better way than to get outside and spend time in nature.
Positive Impact on Your Mind and Body
Simply put, being in nature has positive impacts on both our minds and bodies. For healthy and active aging, spending time outdoors can help to reduce negative feelings of stress, anxiety, or depression. At the same time, you’ll get a boost of energy from the fresh air around you, and enjoy free doses of vitamin D from the sun.
Feeling sluggish during the day? Going outdoors can provide a fresh change from the monotonous routine of everyday life. Moreover, you can always head outside with some friends and catch up with one another! Having social interactions with others can create a positive sense of belonging and improve your overall mental health.
Ways to Reconnect with Nature
For older adults in their 60s, going for long hikes, doing rigorous water sports, or spending long hours outdoors might not be the most ideal activities. Instead, you can consider going for short strolls in a nearby park, setting up bird feeders in your backyard, or cultivating a green thumb by growing colorful flowers and potted plants in your apartment.
One particularly engaging way that seniors can reconnect with nature is birdwatching. A perfect activity for those who may be less mobile or immunocompromised, older adults can enjoy birdwatching from a cozy indoor setting, or on short walks around the neighborhood. Moreover, birdwatching can also be a wonderful bonding activity for you and your loved ones. With some birding books, a pair of binoculars, and some patience, you’ll be able to spot different birds and marvel at the natural beauty of your local bird species.
If you want to engage in some light physical activity, increase your energy levels, boost your physical health, and reduce stress levels, you cannot go wrong with spending some quality time in a natural environment. With all the health benefits that you can reap by spending some time with nature, you should aim to reconnect with nature as soon as you can. Start small by taking short walks, or by keeping a small household plant. In time, you will find yourself feeling calmer, less stressed, and much happier. You might even find your new favorite outdoor activity!
Reconnect with Nature in Our Retirement Community
In our retirement community, we offer the best senior living programs for active independent living. Our residents enjoy access to the native Lake Worth, Boynton Beach, and many other areas of attraction that can make your daily life exciting and enriching. To learn more about our retirement community in Lake Worth, FL, contact us today.