Situated on 25 sprawling acres with breathtaking Rocky Mountain views, Vi at Highlands Ranch offers residents plenty of ways to engage in hobbies, activities and daily practices that embrace the unique recreations and tranquilities that come with mile-high living.

David Marsh, the group’s founder, discovered meditation early in his academic career, seeking ways to manage the whirlwind of his thoughts. Now, at Vi at Highlands Ranch, he strives to help others find their own moments of calm.

“I hope it gives people a chance to just turn off their buzzy minds,” said David. “To be easy on themselves and find some space beyond the things whizzing through their head all the time.”

While meditation is often thought of as a solitary activity, David likes to make it a collective exercise by ending each class by encouraging participants to share their feelings and reactions in an open discussion. For resident Tom Atkins, this is the most valuable part of the process.

Club members feel the benefit of just being together in this shared experience. "There's a group energy being in the room and meditating together," says Tom.

While some participants have years of experience practicing meditation, others come to the group never having tried it before and can be nervous about participating for the first time. But, as Tom points out, “There’s no way to do meditation wrong.”

Luanne, now a regular attendee, discovered meditation for the first time after her husband passed away. 

“I had never lived alone before, and I got to the point that I felt that I needed to learn how to really figure out what I like to do,” she said. “It was very calming to me.”

While Tom says that meditation is helpful for people at every age, the benefits for older adults are especially great. 

“It really helps me navigate through life at this stage,” said Tom. “It helps you understand that life is a process.”

David is intentional about ensuring that all residents feel comfortable attending the sessions and participating in the discussions, which include a rule that bars religious and political talk.

For residents like Tom, Luanne and David, being part of the Meditation Club is just one way that living at Vi at Highlands Ranch helps them engage in holistic wellness and live their best lives every day.

Meditation has even shifted Tom’s perspective on his favorite hobby, biking. “It’s made me understand that bike riding is a very meditative experience. You're fully aware of everything around you.”

Luanne feels similarly about the practice’s impact on her life. “I try almost every morning to spend a little time meditating and just thinking about how I want to live this day,” she said.

Added Tom: “As soon as I attended a session, it felt like I wanted this to be part of my life. It gives you the perspective that there's good in everyone.”

Interested in learning more about Vi at Highland Ranch’s warm, friendly community of residents? Schedule a tour to discover how residents are embracing their best retirement.