Latest News

The Benefits of Natural Light & The Outdoors

December 13, 2021

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 New Tradition Homes, we design our homes with large, triple-pane Energy Star rated 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 new homes and communities in Vancouver, WA and the Tri-Cities Area for our residents to be healthy, happy, and thrive.

Not only are the interiors of our homes open, airy and bright, we make sure you have access to beautiful 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 New Tradition Homes, we’ve long understood the importance of nature and access to the great outdoors. Most of our communities include a variety of shared outdoor living spaces – pools, walking trails, or clubhouse patios - plus private patios and decks when it’s time to relax, unwind, or share cozy family moments. Our homeowners enjoy plenty of benefits from their time spent outdoors.

Benefits of Natural Lighting

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 patio or deck, 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.

Residents of New Tradition communities enjoy all of these advantages, plus so many others. With a focus on healthy spaces — both indoors and out — our homes are naturally designed to improve your quality of life for years to come. Schedule an appointment to visit our communities in Vancouver and Tri Cities, WA.