Spring Forward with Self-Care

Keyla Carreras
Apr 28
2 min read

Updated: Apr 29

The Winter Blues

Photo by <a href="https://unsplash.com/@soheil_jalili?utm_content=creditCopyText&utm_medium=referral&utm_source=unsplash">Soheil Jalili</a> on <a href="https://unsplash.com/photos/a-woman-holding-a-cup-of-coffee-looking-out-a-window-OtT1iXYWE7s?utm_content=creditCopyText&utm_medium=referral&utm_source=unsplash">Unsplash</a>

Did you know that approximately two-fifths of Americans say their mood drops during the winter months (US News, 2024)? With shorter days, chilly temperatures, and less-than-ideal conditions for many of your favorite outdoor activities, it’s pretty understandable to hear people are affected by the winter blues. On top of that, after what feels like three long, freezing, and treacherous months, we’re met with daylight saving, and we feel like we have had 30 hours of our sleep stolen from us! Our transition from winter to spring can be a difficult one, but it doesn’t have to be! One of the best ways to get over the blues is by spending some time outdoors this spring.

Nature: it’s your friend!

Maybe you are like many and struggled with spending some intentional time outside this winter, spring is the perfect time to reset.

Here are some of the benefits of spending some time outside.

1. It improves your mood. Sunlight naturally stimulates the production of serotonin in your body, which a neurotransmitter associated with feelings of happiness! One quick lap around your neighborhood or your office building could naturally boost the way you feel.

2. It grounds you. Have you ever been so overwhelmed with life, and someone tells you "Maybe you should go get some fresh air”? Well, they're onto something! Being out in nature, hearing the birds chirping, feeling the grass under your feet, and smelling the great outdoors connects you to nature and, in turn, to the present moment, which naturally helps quiet your mind.

3. It helps you sleep better. Recent studies have discovered that being outside in nature helps you sleep better. With better rest comes a clearer mind, and with a clearer mind comes increased creativity (Mayo Clinic, 2024).

Springing Into Action

So, what kind of activities can we do to improve our self-care?

1. Go on daily walks–you can do so by walking around your neighborhood, your office, or finding a nearby park!

2. Meditation–if you want to practice some stretching outside–AWESOME–but if not, simply get away from your technological devices and sit outside, take in the fresh air, notice the sounds and sights around you.

3. Catch the sunrise or the sunset!

4. Enjoy lunch at an outdoor table.

5. Read…outdoors!

Let’s get out there!

Embracing the beauty of nature this spring is one of the simplest yet most effective ways to shake off the winter blues and refresh your mind. By making time to step outside, soak up some sunlight, and reconnect with nature, you’re not just improving your mood—you’re investing in your well-being. So, as the days grow longer and the air gets warmer, take advantage of the outdoors! Whether it’s a morning walk, an outdoor lunch, or simply pausing to appreciate a sunset, every small step counts. Your mind will thank you, your body will thank you, and before you know it, you’ll be springing forward with fresh energy! Spring is a time of growth — and so are you. Freshen up your self-care routine this spring.