Get in Touch With Nature at The Mayflower

Finding and maintaining a connection with nature has been shown by numerous studies to be essential for whole-person health. “Research clearly shows that we need nature in our surroundings,” says Dr. Cecil Konijnendijk, a professor at the University of British Columbia, in an interview with the Natural History Museum, London. “We need trees in our streets, plants in our gardens, and flowers on our balcony. We need nature as our neighbor all the time.”

As spring comes to life in Central Florida, there’s no better time to get outdoors and enjoy the benefits of fresh air. Here are a few ideas to get you started:

• Go for a morning walk. “An early-morning walk is a blessing for the whole day,” Thoreau once wrote – and he was right on the mark. Studies have shown that walking not only benefits whole-body health, but also improves memory and focus. At The Mayflower at Winter Park, our residents love taking long walks around the scenic Bridges Pond – and they say it’s a great way to socialize, too!
• Plant an herb garden. Fast-growing, fragrant, and delicious, herbs are an easy way to add greenery to your home and flavor to your favorite recipes. They also don’t take much space:  If you live in an apartment, you can keep a few pots on your balcony or use affordable “grow lamps” to give seedlings an extra boost of sunlight.
• Go birdwatching. Winter Park is home to some of the most beautiful lakes and lakeside parks in Central Florida, and now is a great time of year to spot migrating and nesting birds. In fact, Mayflower residents can see a variety of them right on campus. Beginners can also use Cornell University’s free app, Merlin, to identify birds by sight and sound and keep a log of sightings.

Even amid the hustle and bustle of modern life, it’s important to appreciate the natural world and The Mayflower is the perfect example. Located close to all the conveniences and culture of downtown Winter Park, our picturesque campus is a natural oasis – with walking paths, greenery, ponds, and even a heated outdoor pool – where fresh air and sunshine are all around you.

Don’t wait to explore our community and experience the freedom a Life Plan Community can provide. To schedule your personal tour of The Mayflower, send us a message or give us a call at 407.564.3940. We look forward to hearing from you!