Take These Steps Now for a Healthier Spring

As you set your sights on the new season that’s just around the corner, you may be excited and filled with anticipation. But rather than waiting around for the date on the calendar to change, why not take some action now so you can charge into spring feeling healthier and better than ever?

Here are 6 things you can do now to be as healthy as possible when spring rolls around:

• Spring clean your kitchen. As the days get warmer and longer, you’ll start to notice lots of fresh produce in your local market. These foods are loaded with nutrients and are good for your health. Start making small tweaks to your kitchen now if your eating habits have been less than stellar through the winter. Rid your fridge, freezer and pantry of processed foods and fill them instead with vegetables, fruit, lean protein, low fat dairy, whole grains and healthy fats.
• Start a new exercise routine. If your workouts took a hit during the winter or you’ve never been into working out much, now is a great time to create a new habit. Start slowly if you’re new to physical activity or change things up if you just need to breathe new life into a stale routine. By the time spring rolls around, you’ll already be feeling better, moving more and will be ready to transfer that newly found energy to outdoor pursuits.
• Commit to doing one thing for a healthier you. It’s hard to make a lot of changes all at once, but one effective way to adopt healthier lifestyle habits is to do it one step at a time. So think about a change you can make that will have an impact on your health this spring. Maybe you want to be able to breathe easier and smell the flowers when they bloom so you’re willing to give up smoking. Or you realized that you and alcohol have become a bit too chummy this winter so it’s time to send your favorite wine packing.
• Schedule health appointments. Check your calendar to see if you’re due for a physical, dental cleaning, eye exam, vaccines, cancer screening or any other health appointment. Getting these appointments on the calendar now will keep you healthier this spring and all year long.
• Spend more time outdoors. Depending on where you live, it may still be cool outside, but the days are already getting longer and the sunlight will boost your mood and help you sleep better. Just be sure to wear sunscreen when spending time in the sun to protect your skin.
• Get excited and feel energized. Many people find their mental health takes a hit during the winter months. As spring arrives, think about what you can do to boost your mood and get your head in the right place. Some people find that writing in a journal helps or you may prefer talking to someone about your feelings. Whatever works for you is worth trying so that your mental health is in a better place along with your physical health when the new season rolls around.