It’s hard to believe that Easter is has come and gone. Hope you had a chance to celebrate with family and friends and enjoy the beautiful weather. I sure did. Spring is definitely in the air and it is only a matter of time before we see all of those beautiful flowers blooming and things really greening up. I don’t know about you, but I really enjoy spring. It is always so refreshing to see new life, like that first tulip popping up from the ground and the buds on the trees, especially after a long winter. With warmer weather just around the corner, many people have spring fever and are anxious to get outside more. There is something about spring that just seems to add that bounce to your step and give you a renewed energy level.

Ways to Add More Spring In Your Step

Following are a few ways you can renew your energy and add more spring to your step.

1. Take a Walk—Walking is a great way to stay active and relieve stress. Walking can help get your blood pumping, calm your mind and boost your mood. Walking outside is especially beneficial, as the sights, air and sounds can be soothing, as well as invigorating. In fact, walking just 10 minutes can help you feel more alive and help put a bounce in your step.
2. Connect With Nature—Take some time to connect with nature. Listen to the sounds of the birds, or other animals. Sounds in nature can have a calming affect on your body and can help lift your spirits. You can also listen to a running stream or waves from a lake. Staring at some peaceful waves, or watching some ducks swimming by can be soothing. It can also help take your mind off of everyday stress.
   
3. Garden—Spring is the perfect time to start that garden you’ve been talking about. Gardening not only helps you stay grounded, but is another way you can stay active. Many people enjoy planting flowers and vegetables and tending to them. While no one likes the weeds that go along with gardening, pulling them can strengthen your hands. Digging and hoeing also allows you to move your body in other ways than say… walking or other forms of exercise. Gardening can also bring a sense of accomplishment and purpose, which can help boost your energy.
4. Eat More Whole Foods—Food is medicine and also fuels for your body. Make sure you are eating plenty of whole foods such as fruit, vegetables, nuts, seeds and meat to keep your body going. In my book, Wholey Cow A Simple Guide To Eating And Living, I talk about the importance of feeding your body with the nutrients and information it needs to function optimally and keep you energized. Why not plan some healthy meals to share with your family? Make a list of what you need and make sure your meal plan includes plenty of fresh fruit and vegetables. You can also enjoy some time on the patio with family or friends while grilling. There are many options to eat healthier and feel more alive.
5. Move More—Your body was meant to move. Make sure you find a variety of ways to stay active. Why not go a run, take a bike ride or dust off those golf clubs? If those activities don’t interest you, find some other form of activity that does such as basketball, tennis or softball. Exercising and getting physical helps release feel-good endorphins in the brain, which naturally make you feel better and can help put a bounce in your step. Aerobic activity is especially helpful, but there are many options to get your body moving.
6. Silence/Reflection—Take time for some silence. Many people rush through the day and often feel out of sorts because of it. Fortunately you can experience relief from stress by just sitting quietly or reflecting on your thoughts. Why not take some time in the morning or evening for a little stillness? Some people enjoy meditating, while others may offer up some prayers during silence. You can also write, journal your thoughts or keep a gratitude journal. No matter what you choose, adding silence and reflection to your day can help you stay positive, balanced and energized.

Thanks for reading!

Barb

P. S. If you are interested in reading more about healthful eating and living a healthy lifestyle, you might want to check out my book, Wholey Cow A Simple Guide To Eating And Living. Click here to learn more and buy.