Spring: it’s off the starting blocks, gathering pace. One minute you’re wrapped up in thick jumpers, hibernating. The next, we have light mornings, birds singing, bulbs popping up – bringing hope and optimism. This shift in energy is not always easy, particularly in Lockdown. So, what can you do to help yourself have a healthy Spring?
Three tips for a Healthy Spring
- Pace it. In nature, Spring starts slowly and then ramps up the pace (think gears of a car as you accelerate). Follow nature: February starts slowly, then builds pace in March before haring off in April. If you start with gentle effort, then increase it, you’ll be soaring by late Spring. This is particularly important if you are prone to injuries. Most injuries come from doing “too much, too soon, too fast”.
- STRETCH. Yes, an afternoon spent digging the garden without warming up beforehand (or stretching after) might just mean you hurt yourself! As will suddenly going running/doing a HIIT home workout 4-5 days a week if you’ve spent the last three months under the duvet, hibernating. Use dynamic stretches to warm up, static (holding) stretches to cool down. 10 mins yoga, or some simple stretches to ease out aching muscles whilst the kettle boils (for that all important cup of tea whilst you survey your garden, or log your miles) is time well spent.
- If you are struggling to pick up the pace – or have completely lost your mojo – you are not the only one. The past couple of years have taken their toll. Work out what you need to do to help yourself regain some enthusiasm (time, motivation, a goal… ). You may be able to do this yourself – in which case, congratulations! If you are really struggling, there are plenty of acupuncture points that can help get you back on track, so get in touch.
Enjoy the hope and optimism of the season – nature is there to remind us that lighter, brighter times are on their way.