Step Outside to Smell the Roses
With the stormy days of winter behind us, there is no reason to refrain from stepping outside for a breath of fresh air. One of the best reasons to step outside includes reaping the benefits of natural Vitamin D, which may be obtained from the sun itself. Apart from the evidence indicating that the synthesis of Vitamin D from sun exposure has a positive effect on one’s serotonin levels, there are now more reasons to work toward improving Vitamin D intake. According to the National Institutes of Health (NIH), “Claims regarding the health benefits of vitamin D have increased recently and now include not only benefits for osteoporosis but also for cardiovascular disease, diabetes, multiple sclerosis, and rheumatoid arthritis.”
Although Vitamin D intake is important, the benefits that come from a change in environment do not stop there. Simply spending time in a natural environment including trees, water, and of course, blooming flowers, has a tremendous impact on one’s mental and physical well-being. Even a short walk around your community or trip to the grocery store can offer some of the stress reducing benefits of fresh air and a natural environment!
There are also those truly inspired individual that take the concept of getting outside for a breath of fresh air to another level. Gene and Helen Kinsella, residents at Villa Serena Retirement Community in Santa Clara California,have always enjoyed spending time in the great outdoors. The two grew up in Bloomington, IL and had their first date at 5:00am on a Sunday at the local tennis court! Life took them in many different directions but throughout it all they maintained their sense of adventure. When the two retired they purchased a 27-foot trailer and toured the United States and Canada. Not only did they travel through the great forty-eight, but they took time to hike, hunt and fish along the way.
About six years ago Gene discovered an even better way to get around, by bike! Being the perfect gentleman that he is Gene spent the first couple years of his biking career learning proper safety techniques prior to purchasing a bike for his beautiful bride. When Gene did purchase a bike for Helen she was not quite sure this was something she was interested in taking on (as she was nearing the age of 90 years young). Watching the two together now you would never believe Helen ever had any hesitations! The two look as though they were each born on a bike and continue to bring joy and inspiration to the Santa Clara Community!
So, whether you are looking to walk around the block or take off on a 10-mile bike ride, it’s time to dust off your old sun-hat and dig out your summer clothes! The world outside is full of beauty and is just waiting for you to explore!
