By: Kathryn Eftink
As a perfusionist, your career demands precision, resilience, and the ability to manage high-stakes situations, often under intense pressure. Maintaining your mental health is critical to thriving in such a demanding field, and spending time in nature can be a powerful tool for rejuvenation.
Interacting with natural environments has been linked to decreased levels of stress and improved mental clarity, according to the University of Minnesota.
Fortunately, Memphis offers an abundance of beautiful green and blue spaces—many conveniently located near hospitals—where you can recharge, whether you’re on call or enjoying a day off.
1. Shelby Farms Park
- Why Visit? One of the largest urban parks in the United States, spanning over 4,500 acres.
- Activities: Hiking, biking, horseback riding, zip-lining, paddle boating, and picnicking.
- Highlight: The Woodland Discovery Playground is a must-see for families.
2. Overton Park
- Why Visit? A cultural and recreational hub in Midtown Memphis.
- Activities: Walking trails, a 9-hole golf course, and an off-leash dog park.
- Highlight: The Old Forest State Natural Area offers serene trails through ancient trees.
3. Tom Lee Park
- Why Visit? A newly redesigned riverfront park with sweeping views of the Mississippi River.
- Activities: Walking paths, basketball courts, picnic spots, and areas for community events.
- Highlight: Sunsets over the Mississippi are breathtaking.
4. Lichterman Nature Center
- Why Visit? A 65-acre arboretum and environmental education center.
- Activities: Nature trails, birdwatching, and interactive exhibits.
- Highlight: Seasonal events like butterfly and hummingbird exhibits.
Mississippi River
- Why Visit? The lifeblood of Memphis, offering various ways to explore.
- Activities: Riverboat cruises and riverside walks.
- Highlight: The Big River Crossing, the longest pedestrian bridge over the Mississippi, provides spectacular views.
- Please note that you should never swim in the Mississippi River, even with a life jacket.
Shelby Farms Park’s Hyde Lake
- Why Visit? A centerpiece of Shelby Farms, this 80-acre lake is perfect for water sports.
- Activities: Kayaking, paddle boating, fishing, and picnics by the water.
- Highlight: Rent a kayak to explore the calm waters at your own pace.
Meeman-Shelby Forest State Park
- Why Visit? Located just outside Memphis, this park features over 13,000 acres of forests and wetlands.
- Activities: Fishing and paddling on Poplar Tree Lake, hiking trails, and birdwatching.
- Highlight: It’s a great spot for a weekend camping trip.
Wolf River Conservancy
- Why Visit? A stunning natural treasure that offers peaceful paddling experiences and opportunities to explore Memphis’s scenic and biodiverse landscapes.
- Activities: Enjoy paddling through serene wetlands, hiking along protected floodplains, and educational opportunities.
- Highlight: The Ghost River section offers peaceful paddling through cypress forests and wildlife-rich surroundings.
Choosing Memphis as your next career destination doesn’t mean sacrificing access to the serenity of nature. With parks, trails, and blue spaces woven throughout the city, you’ll find plenty of opportunities to recharge, even with a busy schedule.
Whether you’re taking a quick walk during a break or planning a weekend adventure, Memphis’s natural beauty is always within reach, helping you maintain balance in your personal and professional life.
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