Spring! The ultimate bringing of hope, sunshine, and blossoming flowers. The change from winter to summer can be quite drastic for extremely cold or freezing places. It can also bring about an unexpected change in mood or mental health for many individuals.
Acknowledging this spring anxiety is the first step to addressing it head-on. Common triggers for springtime anxiety include longer days and warmer weather, increased pollen counts leading to allergies, and lifestyle shifts involving new routines.
Thus, the sudden shift in weather and daylight can significantly affect our mental and emotional wellness. The key is to embrace this seasonal change with these 8 great mental and emotional health tips:
Soak In The Sunlight
Sunlight brings a smile to every person’s lips unless you dislike hot, sunny afternoons. As the days start lengthening, take advantage of the increase in sunlight by soaking outdoors.
Sitting in sunlight helps maintain melatonin levels, which help balance our sleep-wake cycle and boost our mood. Soak in those rays to freshen up your mind and heart as the bright yellow rays chase away the gloomy blues.
Practice Mindfulness
Practicing mindfulness to help reduce stress during springtime. Mindfulness is all about focusing on the present moment and being grateful for it. Accept your thoughts and feelings without judgment. Simple meditation techniques, such as deep breathing exercises, can promote relaxation by lowering stress levels.
Declutter Your Space
‘Spring cleaning’ is a rightful term generally used to declutter your personal space with the changing season. It is more than a clean-up; you are psychologically letting go of what no longer serves you. It will surely have a positive impact on your mental and emotional health.
Switch To Fresh, Seasonal Eating
Extreme winter may prompt you to make unhealthy food choices that are satisfactory in the short term but harmful in the long run. The transition from winter to spring should inspire you to add more fresh, seasonal fruits and vegetables to your daily diet. This will lead you to a better, healthier life.
Increase Outdoor Activities
Engage more in physical activity with the coming sun and let those unused muscles stretch out. Remember! Exercise reduces overall anxiety and depression by releasing endorphins and keeps you physically fit. Take cycling, jogging, hiking, or any other activity in the spring season.
Maintain Regular Sleep
With the changing season, your regular sleep schedule may get disrupted. Give your sleep a priority with a decent 7 to 9 hours daily. Don’t let the longer spring days change your old sleep schedule.
Reconnect With Friends
Winter’s colder weather can sometimes disconnect you from dear ones, whether family or friends. Spring’s warmth provides the perfect opportunity to reconnect with everyone. Plan outdoor gatherings, such as picnics or group get-togethers. You may also develop a strong social support network to manage stress well
Celebrate Small Joys
Practice gratefulness by celebrating the little things in life that mean something positive to you. Look at blossoming flowers and chirping birds in the park or garden to appreciate nature in its true form. It will have a nice effect on your mental and emotional well-being.
Parting Thoughts
The coming spring season brings joy and beauty to many. Try to be one of those individuals. Give your mental and emotional health a priority by following the above-mentioned tips for a healthier lifestyle.
If you still feel anxious about the coming seasonal change, even after following these tips, don’t feel shy or hesitant to ask for professional help.
ABOUT THE AUTHOR
Maye is a skilled, compassionate, empathetic, bilingual (Spanish) and solutions-oriented licensed mental health counselor dedicated to maximizing an individual’s potential. Using her expertise in behavioral and positive psychology she coaches and counsels individuals on the practical ways to achieve and maintain transformation, expansion, and consistent growth. Maye is an effective motivator and communicator with inherent ability to manage all types of personalities, diffuse stressful situations, and proactively resolve issues.
