Happy March! Spring has (finally) sprung, and with a new season comes new opportunities to build some healthy habits and tackle some of your wellness goals. Whether you’re trying to keep up with a New Years resolution or get in shape for spring and summer breaks, there’s no time like the present to read up on some information and advice about your health.
The food you eat and the fuel you put in your body is one of the most important factors in your overall fitness and wellbeing. Growing up, my dad always told me: you can’t exercise off a bad diet! The key to maintaining your nutrition is balance, and that means not being afraid to focus on your wants, as well as your needs. One trick I’ve learned is making sure I include something nourishing and wholesome, like produce or protein, along with something I’m craving, like a sweet treat, with every meal.
Now that it’s spring, many delicious fruits and vegetables are going to be coming back in season, so remember to take advantage of our local farms and businesses! Fresh fruit is a personal favorite snack of mine, since it makes me feel full, it contains essential vitamins, and it tastes like candy! Also, don’t forget that no matter how you’ve been enjoying lunch throughout the school year so far, it’s never too late to begin bringing packed lunches if you’re able! Choosing nutritious foods you enjoy and making meals for yourself is such a great habit to pick up. I also find packing lunch to be a relaxing nighttime ritual that makes me excited for school the next day!
When I think of self care, I imagine a warm walk outside followed by a soothing bath while wearing a face mask and sipping tea, before putting away some laundry and relaxing with a book in clean sheets. Self care is different for everyone, but maintaining a clean environment and body are almost universally crucial. The changing weather presents a fabulous opportunity to go through your closet and donate any clothes you no longer want or wear (it’s also a great time to thrift for anything you may need replaced!).
Change is so natural in spring, and if you’re feeling cooped up from the long winter months indoors, take the time to rearrange your room, get some new wall decor, or open your windows. Having a different or changed space can do wonders for your mentality day to day, and, according to Apartment Therapy, can spark your creativity and help you feel grounded. Find new enjoyable activities that relax you and take your mind off the stress of school, especially ones that involve getting outside and into the sun! One way I like to treat myself and keep up with personal maintenance is by having weekly self care Sundays, or Sunday resets, where I clean my room, do laundry, take an everything shower, prep my meals for the week, and end my day with a book or TV show in bed. Taking time for yourself is one of the best forms of health!
Finally, physical fitness is so important for feeling and performing your best in all aspects of your life. With warmer weather right around the corner, it’s a perfect time to get outside and get moving! I love taking walks on my road after school, especially with my dad or by myself with an audiobook. I also enjoy going on runs to work on my stamina and endurance. On the other hand, spring sport signups are open now, so consider trying out a new sport you’ve been interested in, like tennis or track! If you prefer training indoors, as many give up on their New Years resolution gym memberships, fitness centers are becoming less crowded, so now is a good chance to get in there and try it out! I love working out, it’s been great for my confidence and discipline since I started last June. Go with a friend or family member, and grab a treat after as motivation! Also, a great gym playlist makes working out much more enjoyable. Lower impact types of movement are amazing too, so don’t be afraid to try out yoga or meditation, especially outside in the sun! The key to fitness is doing what makes you happy and feeling good about yourself. Remember: progress takes time, but time will pass anyway.
