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Living in the desert may not be for everyone, but for those who appreciate the unique environment of Scottsdale, Arizona, desert living offers untold lifestyle and health benefits. Residents at Optima Sonoran Village®, Optima Kierland Apartments®, and Optima McDowell Mountain® are perfectly positioned to take advantage of all the benefits of desert life while enjoying the comfort and amenities of a modern and luxurious environment.

View of Vertical Landscaping from Optima Sonoran Village®

Physical and Mental Wellness

The desert offers a wealth of outdoor activities that promote physical wellness, from hiking and biking to trail running and horseback riding. Scottsdale is surrounded by beautiful parks and natural reserves like the McDowell Sonoran Preserve, which features extensive trails for all levels of hikers. Regular access to outdoor exercise helps improve cardiovascular health, build strength, and boost overall well-being. Moreover, studies show that time spent in nature can reduce stress, anxiety, and symptoms of depression. For Optima® residents, being close to nature adds a peaceful and therapeutic aspect to daily life.

Year-Round Sunshine and Vitamin D

One of the biggest draws of desert living is the year-round sunshine. Scottsdale enjoys over 300 sunny days per year, which provides ample opportunity for outdoor activities and a steady source of natural Vitamin D. Vitamin D, essential for bone health and immune function, can be harder to obtain in colder, less sunny climates. For those living at Optima® communities, the mild winters and constant sunshine mean that outdoor spaces like rooftop pools, fitness areas, and walking paths can be enjoyed any time of year, enhancing the quality of life.

Low Humidity and Better Respiratory Health

The low humidity levels in the desert can be beneficial for people with respiratory conditions such as asthma or allergies. Humidity can exacerbate breathing issues, whereas dry air tends to be more comfortable for those with sensitive respiratory systems. Living in Scottsdale’s dry desert climate, residents may experience fewer respiratory problems and relief from conditions that can be aggravated by higher humidity. Optima® designs its spaces with high-quality ventilation systems to further ensure air quality and comfort, complementing the natural benefits of the desert climate.

Unique Flora and Fauna

The Sonoran Desert is home to diverse plant species, including cacti like the iconic saguaro and various flowering desert plants that add color and life to the landscape. Optima® communities embrace desert vegetation in their landscaping and design, often incorporating native plants that require minimal water, reflecting a commitment to sustainability. For residents, living among such unique flora and fauna offers a rare opportunity to learn about desert ecology and to witness the resilience and beauty of nature.

Sustainable Living Practices

Optima® communities are designed with sustainability in mind, from water-efficient landscaping to energy-saving building materials and systems. Living in the desert inspires a lifestyle that values conservation and environmental responsibility. At Optima®, green roofs, vertical landscaping, and water-conscious practices all contribute to a lifestyle that aligns with the values of desert preservation and sustainability.

People who come to Optima®’s unparalleled communities know what they’re looking for. They’re drawn to the land, to a place where life pares down to essentials. Here, you find beauty in the lines of a saguaro against the sunset or the hard shadows cast by mountain rocks. The lifestyle here offers mental and physical health benefits, natural beauty, and a unique connection to the environment. With our thoughtfully designed spaces and commitment to sustainability, our communities enhance the desert experience, making it easier for residents to embrace the benefits of desert living while enjoying the luxuries of our modern, design-centric architecture.