The end of winter is in sight, even if a last snowstorm
fights a rearguard battle. Within a couple of weeks, nature will start its
annual spectacular rebirth. It will take just two months for it to come out of
hibernation and bring new life, colors and a bristling activity into our world.
One can just imagine the black bear coming out of its den
with a yawn, stiff legs, blinking eyes, and sniffing left and right to make
sure the time has come.
Satisfied, the black bear returns to its lair, sniffs again
and says: "Wow, time to let some fresh air in!"
For most of us, winter is a long period of seclusion, with
thick layers of clothing, little outdoor activity, heavy food, darkness, closed
doors and windows, and the constant humming of the heating system.
Let's get ready to come out of hibernation! Let's take the
greatest possible advantage of spring, that blessed season when we can shut off
heating and air conditioning, dust off the house, get rid of dispensable junk,
and start our annual self care of body
and mind.
Here's what I suggest you do and, if you are remotely like
me, you will feel happy and energized in no time:
"Spring
clean" your body: Give your system a break from rich and heavy foods
by cleansing for a short period. Cleansing will tune up your body to
"spring and summer" mode. Make green juices and smoothies, drink lots
of warm water with lemon, and eat vegetable soups for dinner, hot or raw.
Eliminate your alcohol intake for a while, and watch as an easier digestion
boosts your energy level.
Open the windows:
Literally. The same stale air has been going around in a closed circuit for
months. As the black bear says, time to let some fresh air in. Even if your heating
system is still working, shut it off, every day; open the windows on every floor,
in every room for about 10 minutes to create a draft. Also, keeping your
bedroom window open at night will help you breathe better in your sleep and
feel decongested as you wake up.
Get out of your den:
Stiff limbs? Take a walk every day and you will see how fresh and cold air
stimulates your blood circulation and clears your mind. Excellent for your
health and essential if you feel down.
Schedule time for
You: We are all overwhelmed, except for a few precious moments when we
decide not to be. You can't keep running on the same batteries for ever, you
need recharging. This means time for you, and no one else, in a secluded place.
It could be music, a book, meditation, a hot bath, yoga, crochet or a walk in
the woods (watch out for bears!). Shut off your computer, cell phone, IPods, spouse
and children for a few moments every day. You deserve it.
Watching nature get back to life is fascinating, even if you
live in an urban environment. Birds are busy like never before, they have a lot
on their plate. Daffodils are sprouting everywhere. Even if our way of life tends
to shield us from seasonal changes, let nature's rebirth enter your home, your
body and mind. Open the windows and shake off the dust.
You will be more in harmony with nature.
