With nature awakening from its winter slumber, there’s no better moment to embrace habits that promote health and well-being. Here are a few tips to help you create a life well-lived for yourself and your loved ones this spring:
Spend time outdoors
After months of cold weather, spring makes it easier to step outside and embrace physical activity in the great outdoors. Whether it’s going for a leisurely walk, embarking on a hike, or cycling through scenic trails, find activities that resonate with you and make the most of the pleasant weather to boost your physical and mental well-being. Take advantage of the trails and parks Midwest communities offer!
Incorporate fresh produce
Spring brings an abundance of seasonal fruits and vegetables bursting with flavor and nutrients. Eating a variety of produce benefits your health, as fruits and vegetables are rich in essential vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants, promoting overall well-being. Visit your local farmers market to get fresh produce while engaging with your community!
Manage allergies
While spring brings new life and growth, it also triggers seasonal allergies for many of us. As pollen fills the air, it’s essential to stay informed about pollen levels in your area and take appropriate allergy medications as needed. Additionally, minimize exposure to allergens by keeping windows closed and avoiding outdoor activities during peak pollen times. By proactively managing allergies, you can enjoy the beauty of spring while minimizing discomfort and symptoms.
Prevent tick bites and educate yourself on Lyme disease
Be vigilant about preventing tick bites by wearing protective clothing, using insect repellent, and conducting thorough tick checks after spending time outdoors. Additionally, create tick-safe zones in your yard by maintaining short grass, removing leaf litter, and creating barriers between wooded and recreational areas. If you find a tick on yourself or a loved one, promptly remove it using fine-tipped tweezers, grasping the tick close to the skin’s surface and pulling upward with steady, even pressure to ensure complete removal. Then, clean the area with rubbing alcohol or soap and water. Never crush a tick with your fingers.
Lyme disease symptoms can vary widely and may include fever, fatigue, headache, muscle and joint aches, swollen lymph nodes, and a rash around the area. If you suspect you may have Lyme disease, it’s important to consult a health care professional quickly for proper evaluation and diagnosis, as early detection and treatment are crucial for managing the condition effectively.
Stay hydrated
With the temperatures gradually rising, remember to stay hydrated to support your overall health and ensure your body functions optimally. You can make it a habit to carry a reusable water bottle with you and sip water throughout the day, especially when engaging in outdoor activities. Try drinking tea or adding citrus or cucumber to water to make drinking it more enjoyable!
Protect your skin
As the sun’s rays become stronger, protecting your skin from harmful sunrays is important. Apply sunscreen with a high SPF if you’ll be out in the sun, and reapply it every few hours, particularly if you’re sweating or swimming. Wearing protective clothing such as hats, sunglasses, and lightweight long-sleeved shirts also helps shield your skin from direct sun exposure.
As we embrace spring, let’s remember to prioritize our health and well-being however that feels right for you. By taking simple yet proactive steps, you can fully enjoy all that spring has to offer while nurturing your health and staying on your path toward a life well-lived.
