The worst of winter is behind us, temperatures are rising, COVID-19 is beginning to wane, soon we’ll hear more birds chirping and it’s almost time to crank up the lawn mower again as the joy we all feel from springtime draws near.
We’re all tired of being cooped up during the frozen months we’re leaving behind and can’t wait to get outside to enjoy the fresh air and many of our favorite activities that have been on the back burner for too long. With spring nearly upon us, here’s some tips that will help you get the most out of this time of rejuvenation for all living things.
As many adults focus on dusting off the old golf clubs before throwing them back in the trunk, those who enjoy walking may want to also go bicycling or try lifting weights and swimming when it gets considerably warmer. For those subject to experiencing Seasonal Affective Disorder during the winter months, deciding how best to come out of that dreadful malaise is almost entirely in your control. One thing you might try is changing your workout routine, which can be rejuvenating and also be a catalyst for weight loss.
For many, springtime wellness may begin from the inside and work its way out. Consider spring-cleaning your body by cutting out heavier winter comfort foods and adding more fresh fruits and vegetables to your diet. Some of nature’s tastiest and healthiest edibles are in season right now: asparagus, leafy greens, strawberries, and more. You’ll naturally eliminate toxins and start to get your weight back in check for warmer weather, and you’ll likely feel better, too.
Spring is also a good time to try a new hobby or activity. If you’ve always wanted to try tennis, go online and schedule lessons. Trying something new may be a little unnerving at first, but doing something out of the ordinary or opposite of your usual routine can be interesting, rewarding and exhilarating.
As we’re stagnating inside during the long winter months, it’s easy for many of us to become more and more unproductive, irritable and depressed. Once the weather turns nice, recharge your psychological batteries by enjoying nature and the great outdoors as often as you can. Many believe breaking away from indoor barriers leads to improved attention span, will give you a boost in serotonin (the feel-good neurotransmitter) and increase brain activity.
While outside enjoying the warm sunshine for the first time in a long while, don’t forget that too much sun can be exceedingly harmful. In addition to spending time in the shade, your best bet to protect your skin is to use sunscreen or wear protective clothing when you’re outside.
As you become more active outside when the temperatures rise, be mindful that you’re likely to sweat more than you have in months and dehydration can pose serious health risks if it becomes severe.
When it’s warmer outside and your physical activity increases, your body can lose more moisture through sweating than it has in months, even if you don’t feel yourself perspiring. Dehydration can pose serious health risks if severe — and even if you’re just mildly dehydrated, it can cause fatigue, low energy and headaches. To prevent dehydration, it’s important to take proactive steps to drink enough water throughout the day, so keeping a water bottle handy at all times, especially when you’re working out, is a good idea.
If you experience springtime outdoor allergies, it’s wise to reduce your effective exposure level by using a nasal saline solution after spending time outside. Saline sprays are available over-the-counter in stores, or you can make your own and use a device like a neti pot to flush out allergens from your nasal passages.
By Nydia Nunez-Estrada, family medicine specialist
with Eskenazi Health Center North Arlington