A visit to the park can have many benefits for you or your loved ones. While sitting at home watching TV, reading, or working on a crossword puzzle may be things you enjoy, it’s always good to remember that life exists outside the house. A walk in the park may be the perfect thing for you. It gets you fresh air, exercise, and a chance to delve into nature. Here are 7 benefits of visiting parks for seniors.
Increases Vitamin D Levels
Spending time beneath the sun increases your exposure to Vitamin D. A lack of Vitamin D puts you at a greater risk for conditions like diabetes, cancer, osteoporosis, and others. Vitamin D can also help fight infections and viruses like the common cold. Taking a walk in the park is an enjoyable and refreshing way to increase your Vitamin D levels.
Improves Emotional Health
When we stay inside all day, we increase the risk for isolation and depression, which are huge problems among those aged above 65. A walk in the park gets the blood pumping and flowing from your body to your brain. This helps stimulate a chemical called serotonin, which inspires feelings of calm and wellbeing. Taking a walk in the park also helps you to socialize with others. Being among nature also has a calming and therapeutic effect, helping you to reduce stress levels.
Promotes Better Sleep
The physical, emotional, and mental benefits you get from a walk in the park can also improve your sleep. Spending too much time indoors can disrupt your circadian rhythms and sleeping habits. Cultivating a regular routine of going to the park can help improve your sleeping habits.
Keeps Your Eyes Healthy
Staying at home all day can cause us to consume more media. We might spend more time watching TV, which can cause persistently tired, dry eyes. Getting out to the park can help break up the monotony and stress on your eyes. Spending time among greenery is also a good way to soothe and relax your eyes, giving them a proper and much-needed break.
Improves Your Immune System
Spending time in nature can cause your white blood cells to increase and simultaneously decrease your stress levels and blood pressure. This results in a stronger immune system, which also has a positive effect on your cardiovascular and metabolic health.
Increases Energy Levels
After a day spent at home, a brisk walk in the fresh air can be exactly what you need to increase your energy levels. Spending time in the park also inspires your mental and emotional energy. Interacting with the world around you in a peaceful, soothing environment can do wonders for your energy levels.
Improves Memory
Spending time in nature has also been linked to an increase in memory processes and attention span. For those living in an urban environment, spending time in nature is especially beneficial. Urban environments can cause stress as they require more complexity to navigate. Heading to the park is a quick way to help you refresh your mental health.
Make the Park Part of Your Regular Routine
A regular trip to the park has tremendous benefits for emotional, mental, and physical health. TerraBella is located close to area attractions such as the Chattahoochee Nature Centre, where you can enjoy the surrounding nature and wildlife. Schedule a tour today to find out more about our location and amenities.
