Spring is here….
Or so they say. March 20th marks the Spring Equinox for 2018. This is when day and night are equally split. And while we are seeing a little more sun and longer days in Upstate New York, a case could still be made for whether Spring is truly here. In fact, I just read the other day that we would possibly be in for some very cold temperatures throughout March, leading us to mark this year’s winter as one that came in like a lion and goes out like a lion. Time will tell, but I am looking forward to warmer, milder days and I’m sure most of you are as well. So, to help buy some time until those sunny spring days are in fact here, I’m sharing some ideas on how to get ready for that spring cleaning and spring forwarding we are all hoping to do.
Prepare the Mind
There’s much to be said for decluttering our homes, but that could also go for decluttering our minds. Especially this time of year as we face Uncle Sam. Stress levels may be ramped up as we are now impatiently awaiting this winter to end. With that being said, I’m always looking for ways to lower the stress level. I think it’s a perfect time to shred those old bills we no longer need, throw away old receipts and toss out the junk mail and paperwork that has piled up all winter long. I, myself, am a piler, but when that pile gets too high, I force myself to sit down with a good cup of coffee and go in for the attack. It’s a freeing feeling when the desk and counters are cleared off, all of the bills are paid, and nothing is looming that requires attention. Once the weather finally turns, you’ll be happy these things aren’t holding you back from running outside and getting some well-deserved sun in your face!
Then, Prepare the Body
I’m sure we’ve all suffered a little from the holiday eating and the cold weather, but nicer weather is around the corner begging us to strip off the layers and hop into warm weather attire and what better way to be prepared to don those shorts and bathing suits than to start a good exercise habit now. The new year resolutions have likely fallen to the wayside (Or the waistline) but it’s not too late to get back on track! I’ve learned over the years that exercise doesn’t have to mean going to a gym and lifting weights, especially as we get older. For some, it could be as simple as going for a walk a few times a week-on a treadmill, in the mall, or around the block. Just getting that body moving, will mentally prepare you for an active summer lifestyle. I’m a big believer in the more we move, the more the body will want to move. The hardest part is starting out but then after a few times, you’ll learn to enjoy it. If walking isn’t your thing, don’t fret! I turn to You Tube frequently to find videos on varying workout options. There is so much out there to try, and the best part is, you never have to leave your home!
Now Prepare the Soul
This time of year I get antsy because I know Spring is right around the corner (Or in this case, Tomorrow) and I really just want to get outside and start living again. In Upstate New York, it’s so easy to fall into a winter coma being cooped up inside all winter long. Being out in the sun and warmth is so energizing and invigorating after a long and cold winter. When the nice weather hits I really just want to be outdoors doing something and if it’s not working out, it’ll be doing something around the yard. This is how I like to destress. Working around the yard is my quiet time. I use it for reflection and meditation. Some people like to sit on a yoga mat and be still to meditate. I’m not the “sit still” type. So, if you’re like me, getting lost in something like gardening is the easiest way to let the mind rest while the body does all the work. Spring is a time of renewal, a new start if you will. The soul deserves a recharge every once in a while. Each of us will have a different idea of what will bring that revival to our souls, but the desire to renew ourselves is as natural as the regrowth on the trees and the resurgence of birdsong to our ears.
Whatever course you take to celebrate the arrival of Spring, I hope you make the best of each and every day you have. Enjoy the Spring Equinox and remember, though it might not feel like Spring just yet, the equinox brings hope that we may not have to look at snow piles for much longer. Fingers crossed.