Spring is upon us (even if some days don't actually feel like it!), and many people associate this time with hope, vitality, and new beginnings. Unfortunately, we have all had a tumultuous past few years, and many people feel exhausted and stressed as a result.

No matter where you are in life, looking forward can be uplifting. Here are some easy ways you can embrace and enjoy the spring season.

Make a Spring Cleaning Plan 

Cleaning your home can mark the beginning of embracing the longer, warmer days. Not only does getting rid of excess clutter feel good, but it can also do wonders for your health. 

Spring cleaning can reduce stress, decrease allergens, save money, and improve your concentration and focus. Likewise, it also tends to cultivate a healthier lifestyle- when our physical environment feels inviting, we tend to feel calmer and happier.

Spend More Time Outside 

Being in nature is good for you- both physically and emotionally. Research shows that spending time outdoors can boost your vitamin D levels, improve your concentration, and elevate your mood. 

Even just spending a few minutes outside each day may make a significant difference in how you feel. Small moments matter. Consider taking a walk after dinner each night or enjoying your morning coffee on the patio. 

Make a Spring Resolution 

If you didn’t make (or keep) your New Year’s resolution, why not consider making one for the upcoming spring season? After all, there’s no reason you should have to wait until January to implement new habits for yourself!

Remember that the best goals are realistic and measurable. You should know exactly what you want to achieve and create a tangible plan for how you intend to achieve it. 

Progress isn’t necessarily linear, so don’t beat on yourself if you make mistakes along the way. Such obstacles are entirely normal.

Try to learn from them, and adjust your goals as needed. Furthermore, make it a habit to celebrate successes along the way! Doing so will help you stay inspired and disciplined.

Practice Environmentally-Conscious Behaviors 

Earth Day happens each spring, and this can be a great reminder for all of us to nurture our planet. You can practice becoming more environmentally conscious by:

• Using reusable items instead of disposable ones

• Avoiding buying excess things to reduce wastefulness

• Shopping locally

• Recycling any items that can be recycled

• Donating unused items

• Biking, walking, or using public transport instead of driving

• Eating less meat

• Limiting food waste

• Reducing the amount of time you shower

• Using energy-efficient lightbulbs

Remember that small actions add up. You don’t need to overhaul your entire lifestyle or commit to changes that feel downright daunting. But becoming more aware of your patterns and trying to optimize them can make the world a better place. 

Try a New Activity

What hobby piques your interest? What’s something you’ve always wanted to try? 

It’s easy to make excuses (you’re too busy, you have too much going on at work, you don’t even know if you’d like the hobby). But how many times have excuses prevented you from harnessing true happiness?

This spring, make a commitment to move outside your comfort zone. Try that thing that’s always seemed exciting to you. You don’t have to plunge in wholeheartedly. It can be enough to watch a few Youtube tutorials or sign up for an introductory class. 

But taking that initiative can be a profound step towards feeling accomplished and empowered. And that’s what embracing the changing seasons is all about.

Embrace More Gratitude

Life can be so hard, and many of us live with particularly challenging circumstances. These situations can make things feel incredibly challenging. You may feel scared or hopeless about your future.

Research shows that people who practice gratitude regularly tend to have higher levels of self-esteem and happiness. They also tend to feel more resilient in coping with adversity.

Gratitude doesn’t eliminate those difficult moments, but it can help put life into perspective. When you’re able to focus on all that you appreciate, it can make things seem more manageable.

You can implement gratitude in your daily life by:

• Committing to a routine practice where you reflect on your gratitude each day

• Thanking people for their role in your life

• Taking time to appreciate small moments that bring you joy

• Intentionally engaging in activities and relationships that make you feel good

• Trying to reflect on what you can learn from difficult situations

• Practicing self-compassion when you feel upset or angry

• Tracking your gratitude in a journal

Consider Therapy To Enjoy the Spring Season 

Spring is a time for self-exploration and growth, and that can also apply to your mental health. We can all benefit from an emotional tune-up, and therapy offers a supportive environment for exploring your goals and creating an optimal life. 

No matter your circumstances, we are here to help! Contact us today to learn more. Elevate Counseling is located in Hinsdale and serves the western suburbs of Chicago and all over Illinois.