Have you ever wondered why you almost always feel better when you spend time outdoors?

It’s not just your imagination.

Researchers have found a link that can mean better physical and mental health. Social connections made during nature-based activities might also improve quality of life. Those studied over the age of 65 expressed a stronger sense of purpose in life after participating in outdoor activities.

In today’s world with long hours spent looking at screens, it’s good to remember that changing your view to the outside world can provide many benefits, including:

• Improved attention
• Lower stress
• Cognitive flexibility
• Lifted moods
• Increased sense of well-being

How long should you spend in nature?

There isn’t a definitive number of outdoor hours but one study found that those who spent at least two hours recreating in nature reported significantly greater feelings of health and well-being. The results were similar whether the individual enjoyed the outdoors for a continuous two hours or broke it up into several activities. It was also pointed out that green space is not the only color that benefits physical and mental health. Blue spaces, including oceans, rivers and lakes also produced the same positive effects.

Download our complimentary Successful Transitions guide!

Discovering the benefits of Waldorf, Maryland’s parks and outdoor spaces

If you’ve chosen the Waldorf, MD area as your retirement base, you’ll be happy to learn about the outdoor spaces available.

The following is a run-down of a few of the possibilities you’ll discover. Put on a pair of great walking shoes and set off to see what you can experience in the great outdoors.

You’ll love the climate that allows spending time in the Waldorf parks for most of the year. Take a look at a few of the walking trails available. Friendship Farm Park has two loops that provide four miles of trails that will take you along waterfront and woodlands.

Gilbert Run Park is perfect for shorter walks. Its 1.6 mile nature trail features boardwalks, bridges and even a beaver colony you can watch from the observation deck as they work. Another great option for a shorter stroll is Laurel Springs Regional Park with a 1.6 mile nature trail around the athletic complex.

If you like a little more of a challenge and prefer walks that are more like hikes, check out Maxwell Hall Park in Waldorf MD. You’ll experience 14.2 miles of trails along shoreline, woods and hills.

When nature is calling and you’re ready to replenish your soul, consider a visit to Port Tobacco River Park and Tom Roland Natural Resources Area. You’ll discover 149 acres that feature trails, interpretive displays, wildlife observation decks, trailside rest areas, and even resident eagles to observe.

Birdwatching is becoming one of the fastest growing hobbies in the U.S. and provides the perfect purpose to spend time in nature. Visit the Piscataway Maryland Ornithological Society Sanctuary in the watershed of Piscataway Creek where you’ll find diverse flora and many different species of birds including pileated woodpeckers, osprey, eagles, waterfowl and songbirds year-round.

If fishing is more your passion, the Waldorf outdoor spaces invite you to try catch-and-release at Wheatly Lake. Try your luck with a variety of fish from largemouth bass to bluegill to rainbow trout. For a new experience, head to Fort Washington Park for Potomac River fishing near the lighthouse.

For gardeners and those who just appreciate the absolute beauty of the vast diversity of nature, embrace the tranquility you’ll find at the United States Botanic Garden, both outdoors or in the conservatory. Make sure to visit the famous Bartholdi Fountain and gardens showcasing sustainable landscaping and design.

How about spending time outdoors while also working a little on your golf game? You’ll have your choice of booking a tee time at the public White Plains Golf Course where you’ll be challenged by the par 70, 18-hole course. Or if you’d like to become a member at the National Golf Club, you’ll enjoy the East Coast’s only Ted Robinson signature course, that also provides many amenities for members. And if you’re walking the course, you’ll not only receive the benefits of being outside but the exercise as well.

How assisted living communities provide the advantages of nature in Waldorf, MD

There are so many benefits you’ll find at an assisted living community. These can include the easy maintenance-free life, many opportunities to make new friends, stay in shape and eat healthy. But you’ll also discover how easy it is to maintain your wellness goals and take advantage of the outdoors.

Whether it’s walking on one of the trails, spending time in the garden or just enjoying the sun on your face or sitting in the shade to enjoy a good book, community life provides everything you need to take advantage of both the indoors and out.

The Charleston Senior Living Community

Locally owned and operated, we offer personalized care by our dedicated team members. Setting a new standard in Assisted Living and Memory Care, we don’t define our residents by their limitations or illness but instead believe in focusing on the positive and the possibility.

The Charleston Senior Community includes private apartments for assisted living residents and for those living with Alzheimer’s or dementia. Your loved ones will benefit from our attention to detail, routine health assessments, delicious dining and daily activity programs as we support everyone to live their best life.

Consider a few of our amenities:

• Chef-led dining program
• Community movie theater
• Salon
• Ballroom
• Live entertainment
• Outdoor patio
• Social lounges
• Housekeeping

If you or your family is thinking about Assisted living or Memory care, we hope you will consider The Charleston Senior Community. We are a trusted resource and are here to answer any questions, contact us today.

We also invite you to download our complimentary Successful Transitions guide to learn more about making the move to senior living.