Fresh air, warmth, and sunshine can play an important role in lifting your mood and enhancing your quality of life.
The Benefits of Sunshine
Exposure to sunlight and fresh air offers many health benefits – increased energy, reduced stress, and improved sleep, to name a few.
Studies show that spending some time outdoors in the morning can even help you sleep better at night. That’s because sunlight aids in melatonin regulation, the hormone that helps you fall asleep and stay asleep.
Spending time in the sun can also boost the levels of vitamin D found in your body. Vitamin D supports brain, bones, and muscle function.
Sunlight is even thought to help prevent depression because the “happy” chemical serotonin is higher in the brain during the time of year when days are longer.
Here are 10 ways to take advantage of the season.
1. Take a walk.
Studies have shown that even 10 minutes of walking each day can help older adults maintain strength and improve longevity.
Researchers found that taking a simple stroll each day can help you live longer. By the end of the week, you will have accumulated 70 minutes of physical activity! It goes to show that small changes can lead to big benefits for your health.
2. Visit tourist attractions.
Become a tourist in your own town! Spring offers the perfect weather to visit local landmarks, historical sites, and museums.
Each month Senior Star communities plan special outings and events. Residents can use the Sagely app to review the community calendar and RSVP to activities.
Enjoy a day with your fellow residents or plan an outing with your family and friends.
3. Go on a picnic.
A little creativity can turn something ordinary into an adventure. Plan a picnic to soak in the sights and sounds of spring.
Every Senior Star community offers outdoor space where residents can relax and enjoy the outdoors. It doesn’t need to be fancy; even a simple snack can be special when you’re enjoying the fresh air.
Grab a blanket and or find a shady bench. Prefer to dine solo? Bring a book to relax in solitude. Want a little company? Invite a friend to share a meal together.
4. Visit a farmers market.
There’s so much to see and sample at a farmer’s market. The vibrant colors of the produce and the smell of fresh flowers are sure to engage your senses.
A Farmer’s Market is an excellent place to find friendly faces on a nice spring day. Check out the National Farmers Market Directory for a location near you.
5. Go fishing.
Dust off your rod and reel and head to your favorite fishing spot.
Many states offer free or discounted licenses to encourage seniors to fish more. Check out this guide to find the requirements for your area.
It’s likely that you won’t need to travel far to reel in a big one. Many communities maintain well-stocked ponds as part of their parks and recreation programs.
Fishing is also a great way to bond with kids and grandkids or enjoy some peace and solitude.
6. Eat outdoors at your favorite restaurant.
If a picnic doesn’t appeal to you, how about dinner at a restaurant that offers outdoor seating?
You’ll get all the perks of dining al fresco, with none of the cooking or cleanup. Add good company and delicious food and you’ve got the recipe for a lovely night out.
Worried that the temperature will dip as soon as the sun goes down? Many restaurants have patio heaters to enhance the comfort of their dinner guests. Bring a light jacket or a pretty wrap and you’re sure to enjoy your meal in comfort.
7. Install a bird feeder.
Once the birds start chirping, you know spring has arrived. An abundant food source will help attract these feathered friends to your yard.
Buy a bird feeder and install it near a window outside your home.
Technology makes it possible to identify birds with the touch of a button. Check out this app to put a name to the birds you see or hear this season.
8. Plant a container garden.
If you have a small pot and a sunny widow, you have everything you need to grow fresh herbs, like basil, oregano, or thyme.
Not only will you enjoy watching your little plant grow, but you’ll get to enjoy all of the fresh flavors herbs all season long.
Try growing mint if you like a cocktail with some extra pizzazz. Senior Star Mixology Experiences are a great way for residents to discover new drinks and socialize during happy hour.
Contact your Senior Star location to find out what’s available in your local community and how to participate.
9. Feel like a kid again.
Head outside and do the activities you used to love as a kid! Fly a kite, search for four-leaf clovers, or blow bubbles. There’s no age limit on fun!
These are great activities to do with your grandchildren, so invite them over for a playdate and some fun in the sun!
10. Add in some physical activity.
Do you find a little extra pep in your step once the weather is warmer? Use that extra energy to get in some exercise.
Many of the Signature Programs, as well as the fitness center programming at Senior Star communities, are designed to help you stay mentally and physically fit.
Staying physically active can improve independence and flexibility and even protect your heart health.
Exercise doesn’t have to be strenuous; low-impact activities like walking, yoga, swimming and water aerobics can help with flexibility, balance, and strength. The National Institute on Aging offers a guide that can help you get started.
Get in touch with the team at your Senior Star location to learn more about the exciting events happening this spring in your community.
Questions about senior living? Contact us to learn more.