Springtime is here! Fresh air is pouring through our windows and sunlight is sticking around later into the evening. For many, spring means wiping away the sleepiness of winter and a renewed jolt of energy. We may feel more focused, energized and alert this time of year—after all, it’s called “spring cleaning” for a reason!
The spring season may naturally give way to increased energy, but sometimes we might need a little kick to get things started and keep our spirit in motion. There are ways we can utilize the powerful force of rebirth, renewal and regeneration that spring sends our way in our everyday lives. Incorporate these tips into your daily routine and see how you can harness the energy of spring to become more productive.
1. SCHEDULE OUTDOOR TIME INTO YOUR DAY.
During the winter, people tend to imitate frightened hermit crabs and tuck themselves away in their shells. If it’s crummy and gray outside, the desire to be outdoors might diminish and to remain on the couch in fuzzy slippers increase. Once the daily amount of light increases and the temperatures warm up, however, we need to find ways to break free of this chilly weather habit.
To get used to being outdoors again, schedule time to be out in nature. Even if it’s an extended walk to and from the mailbox, encourage your body to revel in the warmth and beauty that spring brings. Get a jump on your allergy prevention routine, so you can enjoy the outdoors. Replace a Sunday afternoon Law & Order marathon with a hike around a local trail. Make it happen!
2. COOK WITH SEASONAL PRODUCE.
Not only does your brain get a recharge when the weather improves, but so should our diets. Especially if we find ourselves in a post-New Year’s resolution rut, including new foods in our diet can spice things up (literally!). Follow this guide for incorporating produce that is seasonal (and local, if you can manage) into your daily meals. Bookmark some interesting new recipes. Cook with an ingredient you’ve never even heard of before. Your taste buds will enjoy the change just as much as the rest of your body.
3. OPEN UP YOUR WINDOWS!
Being greeted by fresh air can feel unusual after a long winter, but it can do wonders for the soul. Let in the sounds of nature and the cool spring breeze by opening up your home windows and car windows when you’re out and about. It will remind you there’s an outdoors waiting to reconnect with you.
4. SHIFT YOUR WORKOUTS SO YOU’RE OUTSIDE MORE OFTEN.
Gloomy and snowy weather can make outdoor workouts especially tricky. It’s not uncommon to switch to all-indoor sports or exercises during the chilly seasons, but spring is a time to bust out of that routine and hit the pavement. Try out a bootcamp that meets in a local park. Search for outdoor yoga classes. Start a running program. Find an outdoor pool for backstroke practice. Get outside your comfort zone and you might just find it’s not so uncomfortable, after all.
5. TAKE UP A NEW, SPRINGTIME HOBBY.
There are many hobbies that require nice weather to enjoy. Whether it’s an active endeavor or taking up painting in the park, spring opens all kinds of doors for new adventures and methods of stress management. Fill out your hobby portfolio with something new and exciting this spring.
SOURCE: http://www.care2.com/greenliving/5-ways-to-use-the-spring-season-to-be-more-productive.html
