Can you feel the fresh air? Dive into our May newsletter for a breath of inspiration.
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Hello May flowers! šø
It's funny how we spend all winter waiting for spring to arrive, imagining warm, sunny days and blooming flowers. After months of cold and snow, we build up this idealized version of what spring will be likeāsunshine, mild temperatures, and clear skies.
Then spring actually arrives, and we're hit with windy, rainy days instead! It's almost like the weather is playing a trick on us. We envision ourselves strolling through the park with a light jacket, but instead, we end up grabbing our umbrellas and sweaters, wondering why it's so chilly.
But that's just part of the season, right? Spring is all about transition. The rain helps everything grow and keeps the flowers blooming, so even though it can be a bit of a letdown, it's essential for the season to do its thing.
The way spring arrives and changes the landscape is a lot like how we evolve and grow as individuals. Just like the seasons, we go through different phases in our lives, and each one brings its own unique set of challenges and opportunities. Check out my recent blog about Maycember, discussing the transition with family milestones, facing challenges and emotions, and strategies to help navigate this time of year.
When we decide to change our mindset or build better habits, we often imagine a smooth, linear path toward our goals. But in reality, it's much more like the unpredictable weather of springāsometimes sunny and clear, other times windy and rainy. We most likely will have setbacks or unexpected challenges in our life, just like those surprising spring storms.
But just as spring's rain helps the flowers grow, our challenges can help us grow, too. It's about learning to accept and embrace these moments, understanding that they are a natural part of the process of life. Building better habits or changing our mindset isn't always easy, but it's in those moments of struggle that we often find the most growth.
Just like spring weather can be a rollercoaster of sunshine and showers, our mental health can also have its ups and downs. That rainy period doesn't define the whole season, and it's important to remember that challenges are a natural part of life.
And just like the beauty that comes from spring after winter, thereās something beautiful in the progress we make over time. We become more resilient, adaptable, and appreciative of the journey we've been on.
So, while it might be tough when things don't go exactly as planned, remember that every step is part of your own evolution. Your efforts will lead you to a better version of yourself.
THE BENEFITS OF BEING OUT IN NATURE
Scientists have found that being in nature has a profound impact on our brains and behavior. Researchers have seen actual changes in the brain and body that suggest we are physically and mentally healthier when we are interacting with nature. Weāre less stressed and anxious, have an increase in our ability to focus, are more creative, and have greater capacity to connect with people.
We currently live in a society where weāre spending more time indoors and online, this is especially true for children. Weāre experiencing as a society some of the highest levels of depression and anxiety historically, and I canāt help but wonder if itās because of our habit of being indoors and online.
Being out in nature has been scientifically proven to help us feel more alive and vital. Being outdoors gives us energy, makes us happier, helps us to relieve the everyday stresses of our overscheduled lives, opens the door to creativity, and helps us to be kind to others.
And the best thing? Nature is a resource thatās totally free and that many of us can access by just walking outside our doors.
THE HABIT LAB š¬
The spring season is a great opportunity to experiment with new habits and to make positive changes. As we celebrate Mental Health Awareness Month, remember the profound impact nature can have on our mental well-being. Time spent in green spaces can reduce stress, anxiety, and depression while boosting mood and resilience.
Here are some suggestions for exploring new habits during this time:
- š¶š»āāļøš³Nature Walks: Take advantage of the improving weather and go for daily walks in nature. It's a great way to clear your mind, get exercise, and enjoy the sights and sounds of spring.
- š¼š±Gardening: Whether you have a small balcony or a backyard, planting a few flowers, herbs, or vegetables can be a therapeutic and rewarding seasonal habit. Plus you have the added benefit of harvesting the fruits of your efforts! š
- š§āļøMindful Mornings: Start your day with a routine that includes meditation, stretching, or stepping outside first thing in the morning. Have a short, daily mindfulness practice of deep breathing exercises to set the tone of mental health for the day. Mornings can be the perfect time to set intentions for the day.
- š“šš¼āāļøOutdoor Workouts: Take your workout routine outside. Try running, biking, or yoga in a park to switch up your usual indoor routine. Listen to the birds, feel the breeze, and savor the present moment. These small acts can enhance your mental clarity and sense of peace.
- šš„¬Seasonal Eating: Explore your local farmerās market for fresh, seasonal produce and experiment with new recipes that celebrate fresh spring ingredients.
- šØš·Creative Projects: Spring can inspire creativity. Consider starting a new art project, learning photography, or writing outdoors to spark fresh ideas.
- ššµDigital Detox: Set aside specific times during the day to disconnect from screens and enjoy the world around you. Spring's natural beauty makes it easier to step away from technology.
- šš”Reading Outdoors: Bring a book or e-reader to a park or garden and enjoy some peaceful reading time outside.
- š©š¼āš³šNew Social Connections: Spring can be a great time to connect with new people. Join a club, class, or community group to meet like-minded individuals and expand your social circle.
- ššPractice Gratitude: Begin or end each day by acknowledging things you're grateful for. Spring's renewal can be a reminder to appreciate every joy in life, even the small ones.
By treating the above suggestions as a "habit lab," you can experiment with different activities and find new routines that enhance your mental health, well-being, and that fit your lifestyle.
MENTAL HEALTH MATTERS
May is Mental Health Awareness Month, and what better time to reflect on the concept of growth and change! Our mental health, moods, and emotions can fluctuate like the weather, with sunshine one day and rain the next. This month, let's embrace the journey. Here are a few suggestions:
Are you playing SELF-CARE BINGO for Mental Health Awareness Month? I posted and sent Bingo cards to those who may be interested. If you havenāt received one and/or are interested in focusing on building your self-care and mental health, reply to this email, and Iāll get one to you. š
Exciting news! My training has been picked up by an online learning and teaching resource!
In recognition of Mental Health Awareness Month, Iāve teamed up with Udemy to focus on the importance of workplace culture fostering good mental health. My first course, Mental Health in the Workplace; Yours and Your Teamās, is for any leader who wants to learn how to recognize, support, and elevate team and self mental health. Whether you're a seasoned executive, a team manager, or an emerging leader, you'll gain practical insights and strategies to foster a healthier, and more productive workplace where your team can thrive. Check it out: My Udemy course. ā
It's important to prioritize our well-being and seek help when needed. Here are some resources that can be helpful:
- National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI): https://www.nami.org/ā
- National Suicide Prevention Lifeline: 988
- Crisis Text Line: Text HOME to 741741
Please feel free to share all of these resources with those you love and care for.
THIS & THAT
Have you caught the dahlia bug yet? Well, Iāve jumped on the dahlia train and am looking forward to seeing how green my thumb really is! Haha!
Dahlia flowers have been enjoying a resurgence in popularity in recent years, and it's no wonder why. Their vibrant blooms in various colors and forms are a favorite among gardeners. From fiery red to deep purple, and with shapes ranging from delicate pom-poms to large dinner plate-sized blooms (yes, some are up to 10 inches in diameter!), they add visual appeal to any garden.
Another draw of dahlias is their extended blooming season, starting in midsummer and continuing into fall, bringing color when other plants fade. Whatās not to love about that?
They're also easy to grow, thriving in full sun and well-drained soil. (This is speaking to meā¦ easy to grow!) Their tubers can be dug up and stored for the winter, allowing them to return annually.
For more information about dahlias, check out this House Beautiful site and this on how to grow dahlias!
Flowers can bring such joy and are good for your mental health! š
CLOSING THOUGHTS
I know for many of us, we may complain about the outdoor spring cleanup we need, or āhave toā do. I like to reframe this and see it as an opportunity to connect with nature. For every season there are things to love and loath, which is true for our seasons of life as well!
Despite the unpredictable weather, there's still a lot to love about spring. The days get longer, and you can see the trees and flowers starting to come back to life. Perhaps you may want to try planting some new variety of flowers or plants which sparks your creativity, or utilize one of the suggestions in the Habit Lab above to experiment and change things up a bit. Even if we get to (have to) deal with a little wind and rain, it's all part of the journey from winter to summer.
By adjusting your mindset and approach, you can find joy and adventure in any kind of weather and be more open to exploring and enjoying the world around you.
So, how are you weathering? The answer is up to you and your mindset.
JUST GO! GET OUTSIDE AND EXPERIENCE THE BENEFITS OF NATURE AND THE OUTDOORS! FOCUS ON BUILDING YOUR MENTAL HEALTH!
It would be so fun to see how you are weathering this season! Post a picture on my social media (Instagram or Facebook) or send me a messageāIād love to hear from you!
To your health and happiness,
Judy
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