Snowbirds in Paradise
People flock to Manatee and Sarasota Counties seeking respite from the cold and snow of less climatically fortunate regions each year generally from November through April. That means that we are currently right smack dab in the middle of our snowbird season. Florida is ideal for winter refugees not only for the comfortable weather and standard of living, but because there are so many activities offered for health-conscious people of all fitness levels. Let’s look at a few options of varying intensities.
If you want to engage in some physical activity with minimal exertion, a walk through the lovely Rye Preserve will be right up your alley. In addition to nature trails, dog walking, and fishing, the preserve also gives you a chance to observe wild birds and learn how to identify them based on their calls while strolling the trails of this natural setting. Hundreds of scientific studies have demonstrated the many health benefits of tai chi, including increased bone density, flexibility, cardiovascular efficiency, and increased strength. Seniors can learn tai chi for free each Tuesday at either 10:00 or 11:00 am. For a child-friendly outdoor experience that doesn’t require any more effort than walking (and perhaps carrying purchased wares), look to the Lakewood Ranch Farmers Market. It has an interactive art corner for kids, yoga, and of course an enriching shopping experience. Other healthy activities in the community of the market can be found on this calendar.
If a slightly more active approach to your Florida winter excursion sounds appealing, check out the tower at Robinson Preserve. Ascending the top brings scenic views and the opportunity to learn from a naturalist about the flora, fauna, and natural history of the preserve. There’s also a series of boardwalks, rope bridges, climbing nets, and slides for the young and the young at heart. On the Sarasota side of things, both the mangrove tunnels on Lido Key and Jim Neville Preserve located on Siesta Key are fantastic areas for kayak or paddleboard exploration. You can even search for shark teeth in the sands of Venice Beach.
The Licensed Physical Therapy Doctors and Assistants here at Physical Therapy Doctors of Florida are all about helping you move without pain. Many commonly experienced physical limitations are not unchangeable sentences to prevent you from engaging in the things you enjoy. Our team can help you with arthritis or injury-caused pain in your neck, back, or joints, and we do it without resorting to surgery or opioids. If you’ve traveled all the way from your hometown to our neck of the woods to enjoy the weather, you may as well also invest in your own health and wellbeing so that you can fully avail yourself of the local fun. Find out what we can do for you by giving us a call at (941) 264-1414, emailing info@ptdoctorsfl.com, or sending us a direct message. Now is your time to enjoy the good life as a snowbird in paradise!