As the name of our community might suggest to anyone who hears it for the first time, Westminster Woods’ independent living in Jacksonville is immersed in vibrant, tree-filled splendor — a cozy suburban escape from the hustle and bustle of Florida’s largest city. But just how often do you stop, look up, and really soak in the view of the mighty oaks, cypress, and other trees that adorn the neighborhood? Just read on as we share a few ways to do just that — because spending time in nature has been linked to positive physical and mental health benefits, and is worth doing whenever you can.
Share A Special Meal With Friends
Westminster Woods’ resort-style dining is designed with natural beauty in mind — that is, in our book, nothing pairs better with a mouth-watering meal than an eye-catching view. Our riverfront dining gives you a chance to enjoy the tree-lined view as you catch up with friends and neighbors. Social and nutritional health are both part of our My W Life wellness program, so we can’t think of a better way to spend your lunch or dinner! Plus, it’s moments like a leisurely meal when you’re really able to notice the little details that make Westminster Woods’ treescape so unique — the critters who call it “home,” the gentle movement of the leaves, and every special moment in between.
Take A Stroll Or Bike Ride
Another great way to appreciate our neighborhood of trees is to take a stroll or bike ride, admiring their unique shapes, sizes, and colorful combinations as you go! Not only will you be fueling your physical health, but you’ll be immersing yourself in the sights, sounds, and smells of nature in the process — and that will have you feeling recharged in no time.
Learn About The Local Environment
As you spend more time in our tree-filled community, you may want to take your appreciation a step further by learning about it — whether via our partnership with the Osher Lifelong Learning Institute at the University of North Florida, or simply checking out books or articles at the Westminster Woods library and computer center!
Plant A Tree
If you’re feeling the tree love, why not plant a tree in one of the many national forests that abound throughout the United States? The United States Department of Agriculture has a Plant-a-Tree program that lets you donate a tree to be planted in honor of someone special, which is a great opportunity for those who want to show their love for nature in a new way.
For Even More Tree Time…
When your passion for trees simply can’t be contained, you can also branch out (pun intended!) and explore other notable trees throughout the greater Jacksonville area. Our slice of the Sunshine State is home to some seriously cool trees, after all, such as the Treaty Oak — a 250-year-old live oak whose circumference alone reaches 25 feet in length, with its crown (or canopy) extending nearly 150 feet in all directions. It’s a great place to cool off in some comforting shade — 190 feet of it, according to the city’s official description — and embrace the magnitude of nature in a way you never could have imagined.
We hope that these ideas help you embrace your love of Westminster Woods’ trees in new, exciting ways — this spring and all year long.
