For her, it’s a quiet moment in the art studio. For him, a serene hike out in nature. Inspiration takes different forms for different people, but both Barry and Barbara Gerber believe that it can often be found in life’s moments of quiet beauty – and that’s held doubly true since their move to The Glenridge.
A painter, Barbara is happiest at the easel creating works with her signature bold hues and abstract patterns, some of which decorate the walls of the couple’s Glenridge home. The hobby is relaxing, but also focused, she says: “When I take out my canvas and line up my paints, I’m able to block out the whole world and just concentrate.”
Meanwhile, Barry’s interests lie outdoors. An avid birder and Florida Master Naturalist, he’s rediscovered a passion for flora and fauna in retirement. And while he’s encountered a wide variety of unique species around the world, he says there’s plenty of biodiversity right in Sarasota – from his backyard at The Glenridge to the 400-plus-acre Celery Fields, where he is an active member of the Sarasota Audubon Society.
“I didn’t have time for it during my work years, but now I’m able to explore it,” he says. “Birding really gives you a sense of freedom and peace – because it’s just you and nature out there, and there’s nothing more satisfying.”
Making time for hobbies you love – whatever that looks like for you – is one of the best ways to prioritize lifelong well-being, according to experts. Adults who regularly spend time on activities they find meaningful and rewarding are at lower risk of health problems, maintain better cognitive health, and may even live longer.
And the right environment can also help you stay healthier and happier in a number of ways – from the well-documented benefits of greenspace and walkability to the mind-body boost of a strong social network. The Glenridge’s vibrant community (not to mention its lush 150-acre campus) offers all of the above – in addition to top-quality healthcare and exceptional amenities.
When the Gerbers decided to move to The Glenridge, their love of nature played a big role in choosing a single-family Club Home in the Northside Neighborhood. “We can walk out the back door and have our feet hit the grass,” says Barry. “We’re surrounded by wetlands and preserves, and we have everything we need in our own home.”
Barbara agrees: “Moving to The Glenridge may be the best decision of our married life!”
If you’re ready to find out firsthand what makes life at The Glenridge such a “breath of fresh air,” there’s no better time: Send us a message or give our Life Planning Team a call at 941-552-5369 to schedule a personal tour.
To learn more about The Glenridge on Palmer Ranch – once again named the best senior living community in Sarasota (for the 16th year in a row!) – visit our other blog posts or find us on Facebook.