Many people look forward to spring. After a cold winter, we look forward to longer days and warmer weather. However, it’s easy to overlook common stressors of the season. Holiday debts are starting to show up on the credit card statements. Taxes are due. Spring break means you might have a house full of kids. There are a number of reasons why you may find yourself feeling frazzled and stressed.
Everyone wants to feel happy and refreshed as we say goodbye to yet another winter season. As spring approaches there are a few ways to reduce stress that can help you truly enjoy the new season.
Start the Day with a Healthy Breakfast
You are what you eat. Over half of all Americans skip breakfast once a week, and more than ten percent never have any at all. While it may save a little time initially, just some of the benefits you miss out on all day include:
Regulation of blood sugar
Increased energy levels
Neurological stimulation
Promotion of a healthy heart
Getting metabolism started
Make it a goal this spring to always make time for something healthy to eat at the beginning of each day for maximum energy and endurance.
A smoothie made from greens or fruit, honey oats, chia seeds, and a healthy shot available to buy in many food stores.
Make Time for Spring Cleaning
We’ve all heard of spring cleaning. With the beginning of the new season, many choose to use this time to freshen up their living spaces. It makes sense. The cold snowy winter months can drag in all sorts of dirt and grime. Now’s the time to throw open the windows, air your home, and clean all the corners and crevices till everything looks and smells clean and fresh. During your spring cleaning, take some time to remove clutter you don’t need or use. Just looking around at the tidy cupboards and extra space will help reduce stress.
Get Some Exercise
Even if it’s only for a half hour per day, exercise is a great way to boost your mood, increase energy levels, and enjoy more restful sleep. If you have cardiovascular issues or other health problems, it’s a good idea to speak with your doctor to determine the level of physical activity that’s safe for you.
Take a Moment to Breathe
Deep breathing can lower your heart rate and reduce stress. After you’re done exercising, this can be a great time to go somewhere private and just spend ten minutes focusing on your breath and allowing yourself some time to deliberately forget all your worries. If your community offers a Yoga class, sign up! Yoga does more than burn calories and tone up your muscles. It’s a total mind-body workout that combines strengthening and stretching poses with deep breathing and meditation or relaxation.
Spring is a time for renewal. By following these helpful tips, you can be on your way to reducing your stress levels and truly enjoying the season.
