Spending time in nature is good for the whole you: body, mind and spirit. Here in Central Florida, you and your family have ample opportunities to explore the outdoors while reaping the physical, mental and spiritual benefits of fresh air, bright sunshine and lush green spaces. Here are five fun ways to spend time outside in your community while boosting your mood in the process.
How Being Outside Boosts Your Well-Being
Getting outdoors feels good for multiple reasons. Science has proven that spending time in nature has numerous physiological benefits, including (but not limited to):
- Boosting your mood
- Decreasing cortisol levels (the stress hormone)
- Increasing your energy
- Lowering your heart rate
- Reducing your blood pressure
- Strengthening your immune system
With benefits like these in mind, we encourage you to find fun new ways to spend time outside with family and friends. Try one of these activities for a healthy weekend outing right here in Central Florida.
1. Experience the Health Full Trail Presented by AdventHealth
Calling all Walt Disney World® Resort fans! This spring, you can find whole health in bloom at the EPCOT® International Flower and Garden Festival. Bring the family to this year’s event to experience the Health Full Trail presented by AdventHealth.
This one-of-a-kind outdoor play garden is fun for all ages, with whimsical spaces for kids to explore and lots of Florida-native flowering plants to discover. Plus, you can check out the Flavor Full Kitchen hosted by AdventHealth to find fresh flavors from plant-based foods. See more details about this year’s event.
2. Pick Your Own Fruit at a Local Farm
From strawberries and blueberries to peaches and more, Central Florida is home to many different u-pick fruit farms and orchards. No matter where you live in the area, you should be able to find options within a reasonable drive, with some top-rated farms located in Clermont, Oviedo, Sorrento, Tavares, Orlando and beyond. Every fruit has its season, too, so make sure to look up which ones are ripe for the picking before planning your outing.
3. Spend a Day Near the Water
Here in Central Florida, you don’t have to go far in any direction to find a large body of water. Take a weekend to search your area and find your nearest lake, many of which have trails for walking or jogging. Or, for more time in the sun and the sand, you and the family can head to a beach on the Gulf or the Atlantic — pick a favorite to choose a new destination — and soak up some rays from the shore.
4. Explore a Public Park Near You
From small green spaces to some pretty big parks, Central Florida has lots of public parks to explore. A quick online search should show you which ones are nearby, and you may be surprised to find some you didn’t know were so close. Some spots may even have dog parks, too, so you can enjoy the outdoors with a furry family member at your side.
5. Swim, Kayak or Hike at a Florida Natural Spring
Florida is full of natural springs that make for fun outdoor adventures the whole family can enjoy. You can find the springs that are close to your neighborhood or plan a day trip to visit one that’s a short drive away.
Some popular Florida springs are Wekiva Springs, Blue Spring State Park, Silver Springs State Park and Ginnie Springs. Many of Florida’s natural springs are state parks, too, with hiking trails, campsites and sight-seeing spots, in addition to water activities like swimming, snorkeling, tubing, kayaking and canoeing.
Find the Care You Need Here in Central Florida
When it comes to wellness, we want the best for you and your family. Our Central Florida health care providers are here to guide you toward feeling well in body, mind and spirit — at every age and stage of life. If you’re new to the area or don’t have a health care provider, we invite you to explore our Central Florida network of care to find our services and providers close to home.
