Springtime Tips for Improving Mental Health
By Genevieve Cunningham
Spring is a fun and refreshing time of year. Everything is green and growing. The air is crisp and warm. Moods are lifted and activity levels increased. But surprisingly, after so much time spent indoors and in the cold, many people hit spring with a slight decline in their mental health. Luckily, this is also a great time of year when it's a little easier to make a mental comeback. Why? If you would like to boost your mental health this spring, take a look at these ways to make a significant mental impact this spring.
Get Outdoors
The spring means great weather. A bright sun, warm air, a little rain. But the change in weather makes it easy and enjoyable to get outside. If you have the time and means, make sure that the great outdoors is a steady part of your normal spring routine. Getting real sunlight and fresh air helps to boost your mood, improve cognition, enhance mobility, and just makes you feel better as a whole. Those who spend regular time outdoors tend to have a lowered risk of anxiety and depression, which is the ultimate goal of many when it comes to mental health.
Get Some Movement
Along with going outdoors, try to make regular movement a part of your life. Whether it’s a walk in nature, an exercise class at the local gym, or a dip in the swimming pool, getting in some movement significantly lowers your risk of depression. Since the body can only handle one kind of stress at a time, exercise requires the brain to focus on each move instead of on any mental stress. It doesn’t take much to gain this effect either, so choose an activity that you like, and get moving a little every day.
Make Good Habits
Spring makes many think about things being refreshed and renewed. Why not make this a time to renew your habits? When the spring equinox rolls through, set some intentions to make certain self-care habits be a part of your life. Maybe it’s time to add therapy, join a gym, get a new friend group. Whatever you choose, use the spring to make new habits become a permanent part of your life, and you’re more likely to experience a positive change in your mental wellness.
We all look forward to the color and life that comes along with spring. It’s a fun and exciting time of year. And with just a few changes to your habit, it’s also a time of making a positive impact on health. Use these tips to protect and boost your mental health this spring, and enjoy every minute of your time in the sun.
To learn more about your health, wellness, and fitness, see your local chiropractor at The Joint Chiropractic in Chapel Hill, N.C.