Spring. That wonderful time of year that sees an explosion of colour and new life. Where the days become longer and are filled with the promise of Summer.

After months of cold and dreary weather, it’s a time to come out of hibernation, embrace the great outdoors again and get some much-needed fresh air. Everything around us seems to be invigorated with a new lease of life. We see ponds thawing, blossom decorating trees, butterflies re-emerging, chicks hatching and lambs bleating.

You may have noticed that it’s not just the days that seem brighter in Spring. For many people, Spring is associated with brighter moods and greater energy levels. It’s a time for hope and new beginnings – a time to feel energised and inspired. In fact, there are scientific reasons underpinning this positive shift. The lighter days provide a dose of vitamin D, encouraging our body to produce higher levels of serotonin and improve our melatonin rhythms, helping us to get better quality sleep. And let’s be honest; who isn’t a bit happier after a bit more shut-eye?!

Of course, not everyone experiences these positive changes and many of us can benefit from a little help to get motivated. Here we share some of the top mood-boosting tips that will help you to get the Spring back in your step!

  • Switch your slippers for sports gear: Yes, you’ve heard it a million times before but there are just so many benefits to exercise that it can’t be ignored. Exercise doesn’t have to be extreme; simply building in a brisk walk to your daily routine can help to improve your mood, reduce your risk of chronic disease, boost your creativity, and help you to achieve a healthy weight.
  • Embrace the sun’s natural energy: The feeling of warmth on our skin is naturally energising, so embrace this opportunity to  cut down on your caffeine consumption. This can help to promote better sleep and can even improve your mood and gut health.
  • Eat the rainbow: Spring sees an abundance of colour as a range of fruit and vegetables become readily available and are in their prime, making them extra delicious (and cheaper)!  From antioxidant-packed kiwis to highly nutritious asparagus, there’s something for everyone, so why not get creative in the kitchen?
  • Complete some Spring cleaning: Historically, the idea of spring cleaning came about because the warmer weather allowed people to open their windows again and get rid of all the dust and soot that had accumulated over the colder months from the logs that were used in fires to provide heating. However, even with the introduction of central heating, the tradition has stuck for many and it’s a great time to physically and emotionally de-clutter. Free up some space in your home and mind and reap the stress-alleviating benefits that are associated with this.
  • Connect with nature: Step outside and allow yourself to be fully present in the moment, using all your senses to take in the beauty of the natural environment around you. Spot the feathery visitors that appear in warmer weather, listen to their birdsong, feel the soil between your fingers as you sow some seeds and breathe in the smell of freshly cut grass. Research has shown that when we can connect with nature in this way, we will experience more positive emotions and improve our overall well-being.

At Zeal, we believe in strengthening people and organisations. Through our understanding of the science of human behaviour and experience of the workplace, we help organisations strengthen their people, teams and leaders to create healthier, happier and more productive workplaces.

What makes us different is we’re psychologists with business in mind. We are passionate about the use of psychology in the workplace, and aim to enhance individual and organisational health, well-being and performance.

Contact us for more information about our practical tools and the bespoke services we can offer to your organisation, or alternatively email us at support@zealsolutions.co.uk or call us on T: 01159 932 324.

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