Pina Coladas, Pelicans, Gators, Florida Sun…
A Snowbird Winter Migration
I have been telling my husband for years, I need to be a “Snowbird.” Since we were from Washington state I just assumed if we became Snowbirds it would be in Arizona, like everyone else from the PNW. But fate had other plans and we tried our first Snowbird Winter in Florida, the Sunshine State.
Washington State’s grey winters deplete the Vitamin D in our bodies due to lack of sun. The dampness is hard for many as they age and old bones need more warmth. Despite the fact that many Washingtonians are resilient and easily navigate through the wet conditions, there is a certain lack of exercise.
Many of us suffer from S.A.D. Seasonal Affective Disorder.
Washington’s wet and gray winters were taking a toll on my health and mental state.
I needed SUNSHINE!!! Desperately.
Snowbirding is more than simply seeking warmer climates for many; it becomes a health and mental necessity. As we age the cold, the damp, and the gloominess of winter really prey on us. In this article they discuss the benefits of Snowbirding, wintering in a warmer climate, especially as you age — Do Snowbirds Really Live Longer.
Do Snowbirds Really Live Longer?
If snowbirds really live longer is difficult to answer. What we can say is that most snowbirds have a happy and pleasant time when they go south in the winter. Because they are much more outside, because of the pleasant weather, they have more exercise, and with it improved physical health, the sun gives them a boost of Vitamin D, and it is said that warmer climates enhance cardiovascular health.
Becoming a snowbird brings with it a change of pace. You get to enjoy your favorites all year long and you’ll build relationships with the people you meet in each location. A sense of community and belonging is incredibly important and beneficial for mental health. Plus, a life of leisure provides a slower pace and reduces stress that promotes improved mental and physical health.
Initially, my quest was solely for sunshine, yet as a Snowbird, I’ve come to appreciate additional perks such as the leisurely pace of life. The sun has proven to be a remedy for my foggy brain, providing clarity. My congested sinuses found much-needed relief, and my Seasonal Affective Disorder (S.A.D.) appears to be experiencing greater contentment and relaxation.
Perhaps the most important vision of all is develop a sense of self, a sense of your own destiny, a sense of unique mission and role in life.
Stephen Covey
Being a Snowbird in Florida has been like heaven for me. The warmth of the sun, accompanied by a cool breeze. The crystal blue skies and white fluffy clouds float in a relaxed atmosphere. The soft, white sandy beaches warm the heart and feet. Drinking Pina Coladas on a warm winter day. Watching the pelicans frolic and fish. Taking an Airboat ride in the Everglades. Enjoying Christmas Eve dinner under the stars, while listening to Christmas music, and being surrounded by Palm Trees. Like I said, “Heaven.”
When I scheduled the RV parks, I did it for a month at a time but I was a bit worried whether I would like Florida or not — and our first winter I was committing two months in this one state. Turned out that worry was for naught. I loved it here — who knew.
Our Airstream provided us a comfortable haven as we soaked up the Florida sun. We took this time to just lay low and relax instead of traveling so much, we also used this time to give Betty Jo some much-needed love and care. Even Betty Jo (the Airstream), enjoyed the warmer climate and being surrounded by Palm trees. She is definitely a Snowbird.
Chasing after the world brings chaos. Allowing it all to come to me, brings peace.
– Zen Gatha
But it is getting harder for Snowbirds who RV to find a place to park for the winter months. We reserved spots late in the season because we had no clue this was where we would end up. I managed to find a spot in Tampa for November, but they didn’t have December available. I found a spot in Central Florida for December, but they did not have January available. I have heard from so many how hard it is getting. This is a concern for many who need a winter haven.
We left Florida as 2021 turned into 2022, heading north into the Carolinas, spending a month in Myrtle Beach. I experienced mixed feelings, sad to leave the warmth of Florida, yet looked forward to exploring the next location.
At least now I know I will love it in Florida should/when we return.
Yes, I definitely needed to be a Snowbird.
Breathing in, I calm body and mind. Breathing out, I smile. Dwelling in the present moment I know this is the only moment.
– Thich Nhat HanhSnowbirds are living the dream! Migrating to warmer weather during the winter, snowbirds have seemingly unlocked the path to a happy life. But there are some things that you may not know about this demographic.
