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Spring is the perfect time to start fresh and renew your energy. While we often think of spring cleaning as a time to declutter our homes, it’s also an opportunity to declutter our minds and bodies.
If you live somewhere that’s cold and get a true winter, then you understand that it can be hard to stay focused on your health. Don’t get me wrong, winter really is a beautiful season, but there are many reasons why winter can affect our health.
For starters, the flu and other viruses are constantly going around. Sometimes when you feel like you just got over a sickness, something else comes up a few days later. Not to mention the dry skin. My skin has been SO dry this winter because the cold, dry air strips the skin of its natural oils leading to dry, itchy, and flaky skin.
The lack of sunlight can also affect your mood. Not seeing enough sunlight throughout the day can disrupt your body’s natural rhythms and decrease the production of your mood-boosting hormones like serotonin and dopamine.
The colder weather can also make it hard to stay motivated to be active or work out. Because of the shorter days and as I said above, less sunlight you might feel more sluggish and fatigued throughout the day.
BUT, with all that said (again winter is beautiful but wow I’m so ready for spring) spring is the perfect time to water your own pot by focusing on your health and wellness goals. This transition can be a time of renewal and embracing a new season of growth and vitality!
So, let’s get into it!
Spring Cleaning for your Mind and Body
- Declutter your home: An easy/obvious first tip, but so impactful! A cluttered home can lead to a cluttered mind. Block off some time on your calendar to go through your stuff and get rid of things you don’t need/haven’t used in a while. My rule of thumb for clothes especially is if I haven’t worn it this past winter, then it needs to go!
- Reset your diet: Winter can be a fun time with food because it’s full of holiday feasts, treats, comfort foods, etc. Spring is a great time to focus on eating more fresh fruits and vegetables. Try incorporating more salads, smoothies, and grilled vegetables into your meals. Spring is also a great time to try new recipes and experiment with new fresh seasonal produce. This will help detoxify your body and give you more energy!
- Get moving: Get outside and enjoy the fresh air! Try a new workout class, go for a walk, run in the morning, or take a yoga class outside. Exercise is a great way to clear your mind and help set your day up for success.
- Practice mindfulness: Spring cleaning for your mind is just as important as spring cleaning for your home. Take some time each day to practice mindfulness, whether it’s through meditation, yoga, or simply taking a few deep breaths. One of my favorite ways (and easiest) ways to practice mindfulness is when I’m eating. If you ever are eating alone, put your phone away and just focus on the meal that’s in front of you. Chew slowly and enjoy every bite!
- Connect with others: Spring is a time of socialization! With events like outdoor picnics, restaurant patios opening up, barbeques, etc. these are great opportunities to connect with others. Especially if you haven’t been able to see your friends/family much because of the winter weather. Connection is so important for your health!
- Set new goals: Whether you want to start a new exercise routine, clean up your diet, prioritize self-care, or work on reducing your stress, spring can provide the motivation and inspiration you need to make positive changes.
By decluttering your mind and body through these practices you can help your body feel renewed and energized!
If you’ve been wanting to make a change in your lifestyle, now is the time!
One thing I am looking forward to so much is the farmer's markets! The abundance of fresh, healthy food honestly gets me so excited. Is anyone else with me??
Why You Should Utilize Your Local Farmers Markets
Going to the farmers market has so many benefits for your health and can be a great place to start when wanting to eat healthier!
- Access to fresh, locally-grown produce: By purchasing fruits and vegetables from local farmers, you can be sure that you’re getting produce that is in season and at its peak of freshness. This means that the produce is packed with nutrients and flavor!
- Variety of produce: Farmer's markets offer a wide variety of fruits and vegetables that you may not find at your local grocery store. Adding more variety to your diet can benefit your health in multiple ways! This is something that I am looking forward to and am going to really focus on this spring!
- Community Building: The farmer's market is a great place to connect with others while listening to music, enjoying the local food, or just enjoying the weather and sunshine!
- Support local farmers: By purchasing produce from local farmers, you’re supporting the local economy and helping to keep small farms in business. This can help your health and benefit the health of the planet!
- Exercise: Believe it or not, the farmers market is also a great way to get exercise. Walking around and carrying heavy bags of produce can help you burn calories! One of my favorite things to do is bike down to the farmer's market. If you live close enough to one, I encourage you to try it!
Overall, visiting the farmers market can be a fun and enjoyable way to improve your health and try new fruits and vegetables! By supporting local farmers, promoting sustainability, and expanding your palate, you can reap multiple benefits for your health and well-being!
Embrace the changing of the season and use it as a time to reflect on your current lifestyle choices and make positive changes.
Remember, spring is not just a time to declutter your home, but also your mind and body. Incorporate more fruits and vegetables into your diet, get outside, practice mindfulness and meditation, connect with others, and set new wellness goals!
Take this opportunity to prioritize self-care and a commitment to living a healthier, more balanced life.
So, let’s welcome spring with open arms and a renewed commitment to taking care of ourselves.
