Embrace The Seasons: Spring & Summer Edition

Now the grip of winter has loosened and the days are growing warmer, spring and summer are seasons of renewal - meaning it's the perfect time to refresh your health and wellness routine. From vibrant seasonal produce to outdoor activities, there's so much to explore. Our latest blog is your guide to embracing and harnessing the seasons power.

What’s So Different About Spring and Summer?

Warmer weather is associated with a boost in mood and motivation for a number of reasons, all of which can go hand in hand. The increased exposure to sunlight has been shown to lower cortisol (the stress hormone), raise serotonin levels, (which is a neurotransmitter linked to feelings of happiness and well-being), and affect melatonin production (regulate and improve sleep patterns), all of which contribute enormously to a positive and motivated mood. Sunlight encourages outdoor activities and social gatherings, such as walking, jogging, biking and hiking, or BBQ’S, garden parties and park visits – all providing a natural way to release endorphins that can lift spirits, reduce feelings of loneliness, and motivate us  to get moving.

Now is your chance to use these longer, warmer days to encourage yourself to step outside, embrace nature, and create new patterns and habits to improve your health and wellbeing for life.

Spring Clean Your Diet

Along with the beautiful seasons of spring and summer comes an abundance of fresh produce at your disposal. Take advantage by incorporating seasonal fruits and vegetables into your meals.

Asparagus: Rich in vitamins A, C, and K, as well as folate and fibre. It has a distinctive flavour and is great for grilling or roasting.

Radishes: These crunchy vegetables are high in vitamin C and antioxidants. They add a peppery kick to salads and other dishes.

Blueberries: Packed with vitamins C and K, and antioxidants. Enjoy fresh, add to salads or desserts, or blend into smoothies.

Rhubarb: Often used in desserts, rhubarb is low in calories and a good source of fibre and antioxidants.

Spinach: This leafy green is packed with iron, calcium, vitamins A and K, and folate. It can be used in salads or cooked in various dishes.

Strawberries: Sweet and juicy, strawberries are high in vitamin C, antioxidants, and fibre. They make a great snack or dessert ingredient.

Tomatoes: Rich in vitamins C and K, and lycopene. Can be eaten raw in salads, cooked in sauces, or roasted.

Bell Peppers: Packed with vitamins A and C, and fibre. Perfect for raw snacking, stuffed, roasted, or sautéed in dishes.

Watermelon: Hydrating and high in vitamins A and C. Enjoy fresh, in salads, or blended into smoothies.

Adding these nutrient-dense foods to the existing range of fruits and veg, gives you the opportunity to experiment with new recipes, such as salads, stir-fries, and smoothies while also embracing the flavours of summer. Take these months as a perfect opportunity to reduce your consumption of processed and packaged foods. Instead, focus on whole foods that nourish your body and provide sustainable energy. By making these changes, you can enjoy the fresh tastes of spring & summer while supporting a healthier lifestyle.

Then Spring Into Action

As you already know, spring and summer give us the opportunity to take our activities outdoors, where we can experience the blooming flowers, lush greenery and wildlife.  A visually appealing and refreshing environment can help increase your motivation to stay active. Take advantage!

The beauty of this means activities like hiking, running, gardening, or simply strolling through a park are immensely more enjoyable. These are all exercises that promote cardiovascular health, muscle strength, and flexibility – no matter the intensity. Staying active can help you with weight management and reduces the risk of chronic diseases.

Being active has profound effects on mental health too. The combination of physical exercise, sunlight, and the sounds of soothing wildlife all can help reduce symptoms of anxiety and depression. This in turn can help you foster a positive mindset and encourage you to revisit and reset your health goals.

Refresh your Environment

When our space is a mess, so are we. This isn't just about tidying up your home; it's also about creating a healthier living space. A clean and organised environment can reduce stress and increase productivity: our brains like order, and constant visual reminders of disorganization drain our cognitive resources and reduce our ability to focus. Start by decluttering - sort through your belongings and get rid of items you no longer need. This can create a more serene atmosphere and improve focus. A cluttered home environment can lead to feeling overwhelmed and triggers coping and avoidance strategies, such as procrastinating, snacking on unhealthy food and being inactive.

Additionally, deep clean areas that are often overlooked, such as curtains, carpets, and windows. This helps reduce allergens and creates a fresher environment, making your home a more pleasant and health-promoting space.

When your space is more organised you'll find your routine is too - making it easier to continue with clean eating and keeping active. We're sure you already know this - but let us be your reminder!

To Summer-ise

Whether you aim to eat healthier, exercise more, or prioritize your mental well-being, the invigorating energy of spring and summer provides the perfect backdrop for making positive and lasting changes. Embrace the energy and renewal that the warmer months bring, and let it inspire you to live a healthier and more fulfilling life.