There is no denying that spring has definitely sprung! With it, the season brings the fervour of new beginnings and renewed energy. It's typically the time where we (well, some of us) spend hours on end cleaning the house from top to bottom to get rid of the winter cobwebs. So why not give yourself a little extra attention too?
Here are some tips to help you 'spring clean' your health and prepare for the onslaught of the fast approaching silly season:
Keep hydrated: Hot coffee and tea may have been the order of the day in the middle of winter, but with the warmer weather you can easily switch this out for endless glasses of nice, cool, refreshing water (although be prepared for the initial increase in bathroom breaks!).
Add some more: Let's face it, salads might be super good for you, but at times they can be totally boring. Add extra herbs for flavour, pomegranate seeds for texture and edible flowers for a great visual. This all helps to make a huge difference between a lacklustre lump of iceberg and a fabulous culinary delight, which will heal you from the inside out.
Soak it up: I'm not advocating sunbaking by any means, but having regular exposure to sunlight provides Vitamin D, which is vital for strong bones and teeth, and a healthy immune system. Get out into the day, but don't forget to slap on some sunscreen first.
Get Active: No more excuses about a lack of time … the extra hours of daylight provide ample opportunity for a stroll along the beach, a game of tennis with friends or a swim after work (maybe not just yet for the swim - it's still a little chilly!)
Deep Clean: Ever noticed that you get a little snuffly at night, or first thing in the morning? This could be blamed on the millions of dust mites that may have taken up residence in your bedding. Take advantage of a sunny day to not only wash your sheets, but any blankets, duvets, and pillows. If you are feeling strong, drag your mattress outside for a good airing as well.
**Here's a fun fact: 10% of the weight of a 2 year old pillow can be composed of dead mites and their droppings … Ewww!
Schedule: Schedule a day's annual leave and book in a "screening day", a day dedicated to the dentist, optometrist, mole maps and a GP warrant of fitness.
Embrace spring with your new health habits, and you will be more than ready to tackle summer.