Blog Post

We know  that natural light and the outdoors are great for overall health, but did you know that the benefits are specific and measurable? Vitamin D that your body makes from natural sunlight is crucial to maintain bone density, fight depression, improve sleeping habits, and keep a number of inflammatory diseases at bay. And the best part? It doesn’t matter if you get your sunlight indoors or out. 

That’s why at Cornerstone Homes, we design all of our homes with large, double-hung, energy-efficient windows that allow for maximum sunlight and fresh air flow. Biophilic design, as it is called, encourages the use of natural elements such as plants, water, air and sunlight inside of spaces to improve quality of life. We keep this design philosophy top-of-mind as we create homes and communities for our home owners to be healthy, happy and thrive.

Not only are the interiors of our homes open, airy and bright, we want to make sure you have access to beautiful, safe outdoor spaces, too. Multiple studies suggest that one of the key indicators of longevity is access to green space. Time spent outdoors improves physical, mental and social well-being. 

At Cornerstone Homes, we’ve long understood the importance of nature and access to the great outdoors. All of our communities include a variety of shared outdoor living spaces – pools, walking trails, lakes, or gardens – plus your own, private outdoor courtyards, patios, or porches when it’s time to relax, unwind, or share cozy family moments. And our homeowners enjoy plenty of benefits from their time spent outdoors! 

What Are the Benefits of Outdoor Activities?

• Physical benefits. Physical activity such as walking is good for joint flexibility, strengthening muscles, and the cardiovascular system. Spending time outdoors (i.e. walking, gardening or swimming) can lower the inflammation levels associated with hypertension, autoimmune diseases and depression. Living near green spaces has also been shown to lower the prevalence of certain diseases, while lowering mortality rates, too! 
• Mental benefits. Physical activity that takes place in a natural setting improves the memory, increases cognitive function, and has a restorative effect overall. Thirty minutes or more of gardening, or even just looking up at the trees from your private courtyard, can have a significant effect on moods, stress levels, and mental health. 
• Socialization benefits. Social encounters that occur during physical activity have a positive effect as well. They create a sense of community, and lessen any feeling of isolation. Walking in groups, playing cards by the pool, and tending a garden are all great for exercising the mind and body, while providing vital interpersonal connections.

Homeowners at Cornerstone Homes communities enjoy all of these advantages, plus so many others. We are truly dedicated to creating a happier, healthier way of life for those 55 and older. 

With a focus on healthy spaces - both indoors and out – Cornerstone builds homes that are naturally designed to improve your quality of life for years to come. Click here to view our quick move-in homes located at The Grove at Lucks Lane in Midlothian, The Cove at Magnolia Lakes in Chester, Chickahominy Falls in Hanover, and Barley Woods in Fredericksburg.