By Katherine H. Michalak

An object at rest stays at rest, and an object in motion stays in motion. Newton’s first law of motion remains an important physics lesson in any respect, but it becomes a crucial one for maintaining health and high quality of life as you age. The benefits of remaining active typically are at the forefront of conversations about health and wellness. And here in metro Atlanta, local active adult communities hear those conversations and take them as a directive for establishing amenities that inspire residents to set healthy living as a personal goal. Let’s take a look at just a few 55+ communities that offer just what you need to help you make overall wellness a priority in your life.

Soleil Laurel Canyon

102 High Mountain Trace
Canton, GA 30114
(678) 880-3071
soleillaurelcanyon.com

Soleil Laurel Canyon presents supreme examples of all definitions in striving for new levels of excellence in retirement and 55+ planned communities. While the tranquil North Georgia surroundings and relaxing neighborhood atmosphere ring a serene tone, the array of programs and amenities offered by the community promote active involvement. The recently renovated clubhouse beckons with exercise studios, a fitness facility, tennis courts (complete with pros on staff) and a heated pool, while also standing as a central resource for activities, groups, clubs and classes. Just beyond the clubhouse, you can hit the links, cast a line into the fishing lake, explore hiking trails and show off a green thumb in the community garden. Full-time lifestyle directors keep the calendar packed with events, educational opportunities and entertainment, allowing you to keep both your mind and body active and engaged.

Windmill Park at Brown’s Farm

150 Cottage Hill Road
Carrollton, GA 30177
(678) 391-9491
tratonhomes.com

Ahhh, the good ole days of small-town life…where folks stop by for iced tea on the porch, check on their neighbors regularly and place human connection as a top priority. Those ideals are far from long gone and rank as a mission for Windmill Park. The Traton Homes community of low-maintenance, ranch-style houses sets an intention to echo the gracious traditions of the historic Brown’s Farm property upon which it rests. Centered around the original farm’s windmill, this community encourages camaraderie and activity among its residents. Whether strolling the sidewalks, trekking the trails, rolling the bocce or pickleballs on the courts or gathering at the clubhouse, the neighbors of Windmill Park quickly become a family keeping each other happy and healthy.

Lake Arrowhead

2419 Lake Arrowhead Drive
Waleska, GA 30183
(770) 720-2700
lakearrowheadga.com

The glistening water of 540-acre, stream-fed Lake Arrowhead glows as a gem cradled by the North Georgia mountains and sets the mood for the Lake Arrowhead community, which is nestled along 21 miles of its shoreline. This is true lake life with all the trimmings—and an abundance of wellness opportunities. Pontoons, canoes, kayaks, row boats and small craft vessels dot the surface as captains and their crews breathe the mountain air. Along with the pull of the water, the community presents countless active options on land. Miles of trails wind through the property, giving an up close and personal view of the ecological splendor of the area and a chance to stay in shape. Great Festival Park makes the perfect spot for fun at the batting cages, in the pool, on the basketball or volleyball courts or with the little ones on the playground. Red Cloud Park provides comprehensive swim and tennis facilities, and The Highland Course tees up 18 holes of championship golf plus practice facilities and a massive clubhouse for dining and countless activities. Lake Arrowhead residents know that “hanging at the lake” does NOT mean sitting still.

NatureWalk at Seven Hills

76 Seven Hills Blvd
Dallas, GA 30132
(770) 231-3919
discoverartisan.com

With the name NatureWalk at Seven Hills, this community shows its dedication to mind and body wellness right up front! Perched along the Pumpkinvine Creek River Basin, the property rambles over 855 acres with designated trails for biking, hiking or walking, all teeming with natural wonder. The beauty extends to include expansive green spaces, community floral and vegetable gardens, an outdoor amphitheater, pickleball and volleyball courts and even a dog park complete with agility equipment. Residents stay active at the Tennis Center and in the pools and also join in healthy activities at the clubhouses, whether through exercise or wellness programming.