5 Steps for Jumping into Spring
Now that we are firmly into the warmer weather of Spring, many of us are jumping into the outdoor activities that we love. It can also be a great time to re-charge and re-visit lifestyle goals and adopt more positive habits. Here are five tips to help you make that transition easily.
1) Getting Outdoors
After the long winter, getting outdoors in the Spring is very appealing. No matter what you are involved in remember to think about the requirements of your activity. Having extra water, protecting your skin with sunscreen and/or a hat, and wearing comfortable, weather-appropriate clothing. Spring weather can be surprising so it is good to be prepared.
Remember to stretch when participating in activities like hiking, golfing, tennis and pickle ball. Stretching your unused winter muscles helps improve your flexibility to avoid the pain of over exertion.
2) Spring Cleaning & Gardening
“Out with the old and in with the new”. Spring cleaning and gardening are next on the Spring activities list. Try thinking about these activities as a workout. Stretching before and doing “sets” like doing a workout in the gym will help you do more with less pain.
In the gym you need to take 1–4-minute rest breaks during exercise sets depending on your age, body health, and intensity of exercise you are doing. So allow yourself to take breaks during your cleaning and gardening to change your body position, walk around, or go get a drink of water.
Vacuum or dig in 30-minute sets then do a lighter duty like dusting or garden lay-out to vary motion and physical demands. If you tend to get lost in your work you can set a timer so that every 20-30 minutes, it beeps and reminds you.
Break your big jobs up into multiple days, so you don’t have the unrealistic expectation of getting it done in one day. Listen to your body. If you wake up sore and tired, then it is OK to take it easy.
3) Get help with seasonal allergies
Spring brings out tree and grass pollen that can keep some of us who suffer with seasonal allergies from getting any enjoyment being outdoors. Spring allergies do not have to put a damper on your daily life if you take successful steps to recognize and manage them.
- Talk with your Naturopath or Doctor to determine your allergies review symptoms and investigate all possible causes as well as discuss any family history of allergies.
- Follow your healthcare practitioner’s recommendations. There are a variety of allergy medications available to help with symptoms and make Spring allergy symptoms more tolerable.
4) Enjoy the Seasonal Fruits & Veggies of the Season
During Spring, a whole new collection of delicious produce comes into season! Eating seasonal fruits and veggies is a great way to add to your weekly menus and promote healthy eating. Find a new recipe incorporating spinach, asparagus or strawberries that are the first of Spring’s bounty.
5) Get enough Sleep
Even though the days get longer in the Spring and Summer, it is still important to make time for adequate sleep. Getting enough high-quality, restful sleep is key to feeling energized, supporting the immune system and even preventing chronic disease.
If your enthusiasm for jumping into your activities has left you with aches and pains, consider a visit with a massage therapist to help ease you into the season. Our Naturopathic Doctors can also give you a hand with new Spring health goals.
Staff Author
The Team at Balance Natural Health Clinic have many years of experience to help you live your best life. True Health, Genuine Care
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