How to Be Healthy This Spring
Many people ask me what they can do for their health as the weather warms up. I started responding individually but then realized that my readers may be wondering the same thing. That’s why I decided to write an article describing my favorite tips for staying healthy in spring.
Get Outside For Some Healthy, Healing Sun
While I can deal with the low temperatures, what bothers me most during winter is the lack of direct sunlight, and it’s not just for the cold – it’s about your (and my) health.
You see, sunlight actually has a ton of health benefits, many of which we miss during the winter. Perhaps the most important of these is Vitamin D, which is vital for healthy bones, regulating your insulin, and strengthening your immunity.
It’s so important that people in northern countries routinely take Vitamin D supplements during the winter.
However, there’s another benefit that most people don’t know – direct sunlight improves your mood.
Yes, really.
When you have exposure to direct sunlight, your brain produces more serotonin, making you feel happier.
And being happier is a major part of being healthier.
That’s why I recommend that you find something to do this spring that gives you regular access to the sun. Here’s a few fun activities that let you bask in the sun’s rays:
- Plant a garden (helps relieve stress as well)
- Buy season tickets to your local baseball team and make it a point to attend home games
- Make Sunday “Picnic Day” with friends and family at a nearby park
- And the easiest one – simply take daily walks around your neighborhood.
Whatever it is you choose, make sure to apply sunscreen during the hottest part of the day if you’re prone to sunburn.
And for another health boost this spring…
Bring Fresh Fruits And Veggies Back Into Your Diet
Unless you live in a year-round warm climate like California or Florida, there’s a good chance that the fruits and veggies you’ve been eating this winter are anything but fresh.
And most likely imported from Mexico or even further away.
With the spring growing season back in full bloom, you can start getting healthy produce again that’s super fresh from local providers.
Regardless of where you live, there’s likely a weekly farmer’s market where farmers bring their freshest goods for direct sale to consumers like you.
Or even better, a local community-supported agriculture (CSA) program that makes it incredibly easy to eat “in season.” With a CSA, you pay a set price for a box of produce of whatever’s perfectly ripe each week or each month.
You can look forward to these healthy spring fruits and veggies:
- Arugula
- Strawberries
- Asparagus
- Apricots
- Spinach
- Lettuce
- Radishes
- Spring peas
- And my personal favorite – rhubarb
And you know what goes great with fresh produce…
A Long Tall Glass Of Water
I’m not going to spend much time talking about water because you probably already know how good it is for you (and I talk about it all the time).
However, it’s important to note that most people drink less water during winter, which can easily continue into spring as well. Take a closer look at your water intake and make sure you’re getting your healthy 2 liters a day (or better yet, 3 liters).
When I remember to drink water, I see my energy levels and mental focus soar. It’s one of my secrets to keeping the body cleansed year-round.
Speaking of cleaning, I’m sure you know all about home spring cleaning, but did you ever consider…
A Spring Cleaning… For Your Mind
Every spring, you probably give your home a full top-to-bottom cleaning, but it’s also an excellent opportunity to do the same for your mind.
What am I talking about?
Well, the fresh air you’ll get from walking outside in the spring is a start, but you can also do much more to reduce mental stress and all those cluttered thoughts that stay cooped up all winter just like you.
Personally, I find meditation a great way to clear out the cobwebs and start thinking more level-headed.
Also, it’s an excellent anxiety-reducer that leaves you more mentally alert and prepared for the day. So much that I’ve incorporated daily meditation into my mood-boosting morning routine.
Another thing I usually start doing in spring is to keep a notebook handy for jotting down whatever’s on my mind. It’s one of the best habits to develop for organizing your thoughts. And it’s extremely cheap – stop by your local dollar store and you can pick up a season’s supply at one time.
In general, what I want you to do is consider how much mental energy you’ve stored up over the winter and find a way to release it. Meditation and note-taking are my preferred ways, but I’m sure you’ll find one that works for you.
Like sunlight, focusing on your mental health makes you happier. And again, a happier you is a healthier you.
While you’re getting rid of the mental blocks, it’s also a good idea to…
Take A Thorough Look At Your Personal Health
During a tough winter, bad habits can gradually work their way into your day. Not only that, but you may also push your health issues off until later in the year.
But when spring rolls around, you might forget all about those nagging health problems, leaving them to grow worse and worse.
When you take a full inventory of your personal health, you’ll be looking at everything from your hair to your toes and working to fix those problems so you can fully enjoy the warmer weather ahead.
You might just be surprised at what you find…
Here’s what I do every spring to assess my own physical health:
- Schedule a dentist visit to get your teeth cleaned and fill any cavities.
- Perform a basic eyesight and hearing test – you can find them online.
- Check your body for lumps – and get them checked out by a physician.
- Stretch all muscles to identify any joints with a limited range of movement.
- Do a quick detox with Chlorella.
- Inspect my fingernails and toenails for fungal infections.
Those are the top spring health tips I have for now. And If I think of any more, I’ll be sure to send them your way immediately.
I hope your spring is filled with sunny days and if you want to boost your health naturally even further, I recommend you…