Kick Winter to the Curb

The snow and ice are gone and it’s time to say goodbye to winter. Flowers are blooming. Birds are singing. And our neighborhoods are full of new life, energy, and beauty.

The longer days and warmer weather are good for your health and well-being. Spring time can change your mood, reduce stress and help strengthen your immune system. It’s also a good time to shed those few extra pounds you may have gained during the winter.

You can start to reap its benefits by opening your windows to let the fresh air fill your home. Next, head outside to soak up some sunshine:

• Go for a walk, a picnic, or just sit in the park and enjoy nature.
• If gardening is your thing, plant flowers or vegetables. As a bonus, you’ll have beautiful flowers and fresh produce to enjoy later.
• Visit a local farmers market, an arboretum or botanical gardens.
• Check for festivals and outdoor events in the area.
• Go to the zoo. The animals are equally eager to get outside and are more likely to be alert and active.

With fresh fruits and vegetables more readily available, pull out your recipe books and change up your meals. Add fresh herbs to dishes for flavor.

If spring motivates you to clean, make a list of what you want to accomplish. Maybe you want to clean the grill for barbecues. Or maybe you need to get rid of clutter that accumulated over the winter. Spring cleaning can do wonders for your soul.

Spring means putting away your winter wardrobe and pulling out your lighter clothes. Perhaps you’re inspired to create a new look by changing your hair style or shopping for the latest fashions.

After another long winter of ongoing pandemic woes, pamper yourself this spring by doing what makes you happy.  Let the warmth of the sun and the beauty of nature lift your spirits.