Self-Care in the Springtime

Self-care in the springtime is a beautiful reminder of fresh beginnings. Many use January 1st as a reset, but personally I find that spring has a lot more to offer for setting new goals as a form of self-care. I’m not shy about the fact that I slow down in the winter as much as I can. I don’t enjoy the cold, and my fear of slipping on ice often keeps me relatively homebound. Let me tell you that when I say I get excited for time outside come spring, I MEAN IT. The world starts to become more vibrant, and I feel a direct reflection of my energy rising within the flowers that bloom in my yard. The sun is coming around more frequently now and I am ready. So, what is it that I like to focus on during this season of change? I am happy to share.

My first focus come spring tends to lean towards a reconnection with nature and simply enjoy the fresh air. This is my favorite time to take my shoes off and get grounded. Sometimes that looks like daily walks, while other times you can find me playing outside with my pups and kiddo. I also enjoy taking time to slowly pick up my yard. I comb through the grass row by row for trash that was lost in the snow to now be discovered. Doing this gives me the opportunity to be outside but also gives my surroundings a fresh clean slate to grow.

I am often in awe of the visual presence of fresh beginnings in the springtime. I love how the world around us comes back to life after a winter of rest. In addition to focusing on rejuvenating outside of my home, I work on refreshing inside as well. For me, I like to take time to renew my family’s wardrobes. The winter coats, gloves, snowpants, and the like are no longer needed so I store those away. I replace pants with shorts and skirts, sweatshirts for t-shirts, and boots for sneakers and sandals. It feels great to be able to find what I need in my closet for the new seasons ahead. In addition to a wardrobe swap, I gather items throughout my entire home for donation or a garage sale. I find there to be no better time to declutter inside than those first days of open windows after months of hibernation.

Springtime gives me a renewed sense of priority. I ditch the technology and replace my time with being present and setting new goals. Goals I have set for myself so far:

• Empty kitchen cabinets of items we don’t use anymore (extra pots and pans, cups, measuring spoons and the like)

• Purge my kiddo’s toys they’ve outgrown.

• Have a garage sale.

• Bring dogs to The Highlands.

• Watch a sunset in Grand Haven.

When setting my Spring goals I like to focus on my true values and intentions, and while I work on these goals I do so with gratitude. Spring is such a wonderful time for renewal of my mind, body, and home.

I encourage you to set some goals for yourself. They can be as simple as 5 minutes daily outside with coffee and fresh air, to big projects you have been putting off all winter. Whatever you do though, do it with intention. Be present with yourself and the task at hand. Smile because you’re doing it. Get outside! See how the world around you is changing and growing. Sit with yourself while you think about what matters most to you and where your priorities are. Make adjustments as needed or desired.

If it sounds difficult to accomplish what you want to accomplish, or are struggling to get outside and be present, our therapists can help. We have immediate availability and would love to help you. Call or text me at (616) 284-1329 or email me at echivis@mariposacounselingllc.com. Scheduling is fast and easy, and always judgement-free. We want to partner with you; reach out today.

Emily Chivis

Office Manager