Spring is the perfect time to head outdoors. As the weather gets warmer and the skies get bluer, we’re finding ourselves gearing up to enjoy all that the natural world has to offer. Activities such as walking, gardening, and birdwatching are all great ways to enjoy the season. They are good for your mental and emotional wellbeing, exposing you to nature and sunlight while keeping you active and socialized. As we prepare to fully enjoy spring, it is important that we take care of our health as well. Staying hydrated, keeping your allergies in check, and having healthy sun habits can help you enjoy your outdoor activities with safety and comfort. As you prepare to rejuvenate your body and mind this season, here are some tips for managing your health in spring.

Head Out to Your Garden

Gardening can help promote overall health and wellbeing. The physical aspects of the activity also keep you fit and flexible. Mentally, gardening can help maintain or improve cognitive ability. It’s a good way to keep in shape while enjoying the lovely spring weather.

Be Safe in the Sun

Spending time in the sun can improve your mood and cognition. For adults in their golden years, moderate exposure to sunlight can help those at risk for low Vitamin D. Exposure to sunlight also helps to strengthen bones, aid in reducing colorectal cancer, heart attack, hip fractures, and lowers the risk of stroke. Getting your daily dose of sunlight can also help protect you from insomnia and depression. While you’re enjoying the spring sunshine, be sure to do so safely. Always put on your sunscreen, wear wide-brimmed hats, clothing with long sleeves, and sunglasses to avoid too much exposure to the sun.

A Healthy Spring Diet

Spring brings out some of nature’s best harvests. Fresh and locally-grown vegetables and fruits are an added benefit of spring. We can look forward in this season to an abundance of mushrooms, peppers, sweet potatoes, rhubarb, strawberries, and cucumbers. Getting 7 to 10 servings of fruit and veg each day helps reduce the risk of diseases such as heart disease and diabetes.

Take a Daily Walk

Part of keeping healthy is keeping physically active. People who exercise in a natural environment often report feelings of energy and revitalization. They also experience less tension, depression, and anger. If you join a walking group, walking also helps you keep socialized – which is great for mental health. If you have a dog, heading out with them each day is a great way to keep you both active and happy.

Mind Your Allergies

While spring is a time of beauty, with the earth starting to flower again, unfortunately, it is also the worst season for allergies. If you have pollen allergies, always be mindful to keep your doors and windows shut when necessary to keep pollen out, and wear wraparound sunglasses while you’re outside. It’s also a good idea to speak with your doctor so that you can settle on the appropriate allergy medications to counter possible side effects of your allergies.