As you transition into the energies of Spring, here are
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As you transition into the energies of Spring, here are
FIVE STRATEGIES TO SUPPORT YOU IN SHIFTING INTO THE NEW SEASON:
1. SPEND SOME TIME IN NATURE.
Ground yourself. Now that we are hopefully experiencing more daylight and the temperatures are beginning to thaw, it’ s time to take advantage and get outside. If you can, take a walk in nature at a park or a walking path. Ride your bike on a lovely, wooded trail. Try walking a labyrinth for focused meditation. If you wish to spend time less actively, find a place to sit outside, like a porch, your steps, a bench, or an outside table at a cafe or restaurant.
Just fifteen minutes of sunlight first thing in the morning helps regulate your body’ s internal clock and offers several benefits. It resets your sleep-wake cycle. It controls melatonin production, which keeps you more alert during the day. It boots serotonin, enhancing your mood. Daylight increases the production of vitamin D, critical for your immune system and bone health. In addition, morning sunlight works to improve brain performance, focus, and mood, regulates sleep patterns, and can reduce depression.
2. FIND THE THINGS YOU ENJOY DOING AND DO THEM.
Whether working out in a gym, reading, cooking, knitting, or a meal with friends, when you are involved in an activity you enjoy, you are happier, and time passes more quickly. Find a new hobby, explore something you’ ve always been curious about, check with your local Y or community center to see what groups and classes they offer, or explore Meetup for groups in your area.
3. SPEND TIME WITH PEOPLE WHO MAKE YOU SMILE AND LAUGH.
Spending time in community with people who make you smile, and laugh, is a critical part of nurturing yourself. Isolating ourselves can leave us feeling stuck, unfulfilled and struggling. Take a step today and call a friend and meet at your favorite coffee shop, or enjoy an uplifting play, movie or musical that lights you up. Enjoying a mixture of virtual and live-in person gatherings is sure to feed your soul and lift your spirits. I have joined book groups, and a group of other women my age who are also single. Give yourself the gift of fun and laughter.
HEALTH & WELLNESS
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