1. Golf gets you outside. A golf course may be as large as 200 acres. Just being in nature provides health benefits for the mind and body. Research has shown regular exposure to green spaces relaxes the body, reduces stress and lowers anxiety. Exposure to sunlight provides vitamin D that promotes bone growth and reduces the risk of depression, heart disease and certain cancers.
2. Golf burns calories. All that walking, along with carrying and swinging your clubs, can burn up to 1,000 calories in a single game “ good for keeping the heart rate up and the pounds off. This can also help decrease levels of “bad” cholesterol and lower the risk of heart disease.
3. Golf reduces stress. Getting out in the sunshine and interacting with others is a great way to unwind. A pleasant walk in a natural environment is sure to put you in a good mood. Playing golf can actually release endorphins in your body “ natural, mood-enhancing brain chemicals that leave us feeling happier and more relaxed.
4. Golf may sharpen your vision. Tracking the little white ball from a distance requires focus and concentration. Even when addressing the ball on a tee, golfers need keen vision and good hand-eye coordination.
5. Golf exercises your brain. As your heart rate increases, so will blood flow to the brain, which can stimulate and improve nerve cell connections. Potentially, this may delay the onset of age-related dementia. Planning your strategy as you approach each hole and keeping score also help keep the brain active.
6. Golf fosters relationships. Playing regularly can be a great way to keep in touch with old friends while potentially meeting new friends. Since the action is somewhat less intense than other field or court sports, there are plenty of opportunities to interact with fellow golfers during and after each round.
7. Golf can revive your competitive spirit. Despite the bucolic setting and relaxed nature of play, there’s still an element of competition in golf “ even if only with oneself to achieve a personal best. The sport also teaches the importance of patience and controlling emotions. This type of sporting challenge boosts confidence and self-esteem.
8. Golf may lead to more restful sleep. Sound sleep is necessary for the body to regenerate cells to repair muscles and tissues. People who exercise generally fall asleep faster, sleep more profoundly, and remain in deep sleep longer due to the amount of energy expended.
Making wellness part of each day.
Though it can become more difficult to stay active and connected with friends as we grow older, this is a big part of maintaining good health and wellness. Regular golf outings can provide this physical outlet and help build and maintain friendships through an enjoyable, recurring event we look forward to. So can joining in the multitude of activities and programs offered at Friendship Village of Bloomington.
Everyday wellness is so important to successful aging that we’ve woven it into the fabric of life here. Our culture of growth and wellness is designed to stimulate and strengthen your sense of well-being to help you continue to grow and live your best life. We invite you to visit Friendship Village of Bloomington to find your community of friends. Just use the contact form on this page, and we’ll reach out to you with information.
