Spring time always brings a sense of refresh and renew over here! Lots of new energy coming out of winter. The flowers are blooming, sun is shining and we are living our best lives with the longer days!
A lot of times we are conditioned to think we need to “spring clean” every area of our lives or make drastic changes when this time of the year rolls around. We actually are better served when we make small changes that can become a lifestyle of healthier habits. I am a big believer in making small, actionable shifts in our daily activities to create habits that will last a lifetime!
MOVE YOUR BODY
Some way, some how. Make time for it. Trust me. If you are already taking time to move, it may be time to switch up your routine from winter. Maybe you’re stuck and need something new and fresh. Try out a new class or incorporate intervals of running/walking into your week. Whatever it is, make sure YOU enjoy it.
Talk about generating positive energy, mind and body…the endorphins are real, y’all.
If you aren’t into working out, think about shifting your mindset around exercise. You exercise to feel good, have more confidence, etc. Not to punish yourself or make up for calories you may have splurged on.
GET YOUR BOOTY OUTSIDE
Did you know that getting outside and connecting with mother nature activates your parasympathetic nervous system? This system is responsible for helping us feel calm and relaxed, helps lower stress and anxiety, and the list goes on. So why not take advantage of that?! The sunlight increases serotonin levels. Serotonin is a feel-good chemical that your body makes. Consider walking barefoot while you’re out there to help with grounding. While you’re out there, think about leaving your phone inside, it will be worth it!
DRINK UP
Water that is. Hydrating with water is so vital to every system in your body. We wake up dehydrated because we have been without water for (hopefully) 7-8 hours. When you drink water right when you wake up it can help flush the digestive system, wake up your lymph system, and rehydrate your body. You’ve heard me say it over and over again, glowing skin is in and it starts from within! Pro tip: put your water on your bedside table and reach for it as soon as you wake up! I try to do 16-32oz, but trust me, some is better than none. Do what you can! You can even add lemon! This is my fav glass bottle right now!
MAKE YOURSELF A PRIORITY
Have you ever heard the saying “You can’t pour from an empty cup?!” Well, I hate to break it to you, it’s true. We often forget that every decision we make, thought we think, bite we take, etc. has an affect, good or bad on our bodies. I know you want to feel vibrant and full of energy at work and with your families. I mean, who doesn’t?! So hear me loud and clear…you must prioritize your mental, physical, and emotional wellbeing. How we treat ourselves directly impacts our relationships, friendships, parenting, work, EVERYTHING. If it isn’t scheduled it isn’t going to happen. You have to show up for yourself, so you can show up and serve others.
Some ideas:
- meditate
- workout
- schedule downtime
- call a friend
- go on a date with your significant other
- watch your input
- write down daily gratitude
- practice affirmations
- read books you enjoy (some favs linked here)
HIT UP YOUR FARMERS MARKET
There is no better way to get your hands on local and seasonal goodies. Plus you can get to know the different farmers and vendors! There’s not a lot of things that make for a better spring Saturday morning than strolling the local market with Scout and TEB.
Don’t forget to ask questions to make sure you know exactly what you’re buying! Just like at the grocery store, there can be some unhealthy items at the market too! Also, a lot of vendors do CSA’s (community supported agriculture) which is a membership where you pay a set price for a certain amount of weeks and get produce from them each week!