5 Steps to a Spring Rejuvenation
“All the flowers of all the tomorrows are in the seeds of today.” -Indian Proverb
We are now over that rough patch we lovingly call “Maine Winter” and finally in the midst of spring! Which means soon we are planting the seeds of today to relish in the flowers of tomorrow. What seeds will you be planting? There are the literal seeds of your flower or vegetable garden, but are you caring for the metaphorical seeds of your health?
Winter is a time for comfort, which can sometimes translate to less than healthy comfort foods and less activity in favor of a warm blanket. It is now the time for rejuvenation! A “spring clean” of your current nutrition and fitness plan may be just what your body is looking for to renew your energy for summer. Looking for a little guidance? Here are a few great ways to clean up, revitalize and get ready for your best summer yet.
1) Go for a walk outside. The sun is setting later, snow is melting, birds are singing; we are surrounded by beautiful sun, sights and sounds of rebirth! A walk outside can be invigorating. Breathe in the fresh spring air and listen to the sounds of nature as you set a brisk pace. A walk outside can revitalize your physical energy as well as your mind.
2) Drink more water. Winter is cold and sometimes harsh. These conditions make it less likely to realize you are still losing water through sweat and breathing. Which means you are likely entering into spring dehydrated. Increasing your water intake will help flush out toxins to “clean up” your system, while revitalizing your energy as well.
3) Try a new class at your local gym. Yoga, Pilates, Body Blast, Bootcamp, Spin, Insanity, Kickboxing, etc.; pick a class you’ve never tried! Cardio nut? Try yoga. Getting your Zen on daily? Try kickboxing. Get out of your comfort zone with your exercise routine and you may find the variety rejuvenating to your body and mind.
4) Remove sugar from your diet. Research indicates that a high sugar intake increases your risk of cardiovascular disease, even if you are not overweight, and can compromise brain function.* Sugar sure is tasty, but unfortunately there is no nutritive value to table sugar or the high fructose corn syrup in so many processed foods. Removing sugar from your diet will help break that cycle of cravings and give you renewed, natural energy.
5) Pick a goal for the summer. Have you always wanted to try running a 5k? Maybe you have loftier goals such as a marathon or triathlon. Or you simply want to finally feel comfortable in a bathing suit to take advantage of that warm summer sand. Goals unique to you are highly motivating and give you purpose for the future. Pick a fun but challenging goal, and revitalize your plan for the upcoming year.
Plant those seeds of better choices and your health will blossom. Happy Gardening!
RESOURCES:
*JAMA Intern Med. 2014;174(4):516-524; Neuroscience. 2002;112(4):803-14