Spring Into Self-Care
Spring is underway as the chill of winter makes way for some much-needed sunshine. However, warmer weather and blooming flowers don’t mean that stress is taking a break. Use some of these spring-themed self-care tips to help you improve your mood and combat stress.
Soak up the sun. After daylight savings ends, the days get longer and brighter. Take advantage of the extra light and venture outside to soak up some rays. When in sunlight, your brain releases a ‘feel-good’ chemical, serotonin, which helps boost your mood.
Enjoy an outdoor workout. One of the best stress management techniques is getting regular exercise. Exercising outdoors in the fresh air has added benefits such as meeting new people, exploring new places and feeling revitalized. Go on a walk, lift some weights, practice yoga or play a sport outside.
Start a garden. Gardening is a great way to enjoy the beauty of spring while engaging in a relaxing activity. This calming hobby will help you enjoy the outdoors while taking your mind off everyday stressors. Gardening also promotes healthy eating with easy access to fresh fruits and veggies.
Start your spring cleaning. Studies show that the physical act of cleaning allows you to relax your mind, which can be a great way to de-stress after a long day or week. Some studies have shown that just 20 minutes of cleaning can show up to a 20% reduction in your overall stress and anxiety. Start by organizing your room or decluttering your closet and try incorporating a little cleaning into your daily routine.
Self-care is important any time of year, but the changing of seasons can provide an extra boost of inspiration for taking care of your wellbeing. For more mental health related tips and tools, visit the Mental Health First Aid Toolkit.
