Spanish lifestyle helps you live longer
17 October 2006
With the summer holidays over and most people back at work, the relaxed feeling of being abroad can seem an all too distant memory. But the delights of a Spanish lifestyle, such as delicious tapas and all year round sunshine, don’t have to be a once a year occurrence.
Lisa Griffiths, European sales and marketing manager at Taylor Woodrow de España explains: “Many people returning from their summer holiday make plans to improve their quality of life, but when work starts again the good intention is often overlooked. Living in a warm Mediterranean climate has proven health benefits and many of our customers come to us looking not just for a home in Spain but a complete change in their lifestyle.
“Whether you’re looking for a second home to visit regularly or to move to Spain permanently, we have properties in the Costa del Sol, Costa Blanca and the Balearics which offer the ultimate in the Mediterranean way of life.”
To help make the decision a little easier, Taylor Woodrow de España has put together a list of reasons why moving to Spain can give you a healthier lifestyle.
Sunshine
Spain has approximately 315 days of sunshine every year compared to roughly 115 days in the UK. People who live in warm, sunny climates are generally happier, more content and much more relaxed than those who live in cold, wet climates. Warm dry weather is also known to benefit certain ailments such as rheumatoid arthritis and various bronchial complaints.
In fact, various studies have shown that living in a warmer climate can actually increase life expectancy. In more recent years, research has shown that a deficit in sunlight can actually induce lethargy, tiredness and bad temper in the form of seasonal affective disorder (SAD). Sunlight is also an excellent source of vitamin D, which strengthens bones and muscles and boosts the immune system.
Relaxed way of life
The Spanish way of life is relaxed and the pace is much slower than the frenetic speed of British cities. For example, the words ‘siesta’ (rest) and ‘mañana’ (tomorrow) are synonymous with Spain and there is a reason for that. Spaniards value the importance of relaxation! Typical opening hours for business in Spain are 8am until midday and 4pm until 8pm, which allows for time to rest during the hottest time of the day and also helps recharge the batteries.
The great outdoors
A better climate also provides ample opportunities to enjoy a wide range of outdoor leisure and sports activities, such as gardening, golf, tennis or walking. If you retire to a country with a mild climate, you will also have more time and opportunities to practise your chosen sport or activity, which will rarely be interrupted by rain!
Healthy Spanish cuisine
The Mediterranean diet is renowned for being healthy. The use of olive oil for example has been linked to lower levels of heart disease compared to the UK. The Spanish tradition of fresh food markets also means that it is possible to get the freshest ingredients on your doorstep. Coastal resorts also have the benefit of an abundance of fresh seafood that is known to contain essential oils for good health such as Omega 3.
Taylor Woodrow de España is the only UK house builder in Spain and has been building quality homes there for more than 45 years. With a reputation for trust, the company provides a specialised service and dedicated team within the UK and Spain who can help and advise homebuyers through the entire process of choosing, buying and settling into a new Spanish home, safe in the knowledge that everything about the purchase is legally above board.
The company currently offers homes on the Spanish mainland at the Costa Blanca, Costa del Sol, and on the Balearic Island of Mallorca. For further details visit taylorwoodrow.es.
