Prepare to Spring Forward!

March is upon us, and with it comes something we all look forward to: Daylight Savings! On Sunday, March 9th, we will be springing forward and gaining an extra hour of daylight. 

As we adjust to the longer days, let’s also take a mindful approach to how we live each day. The transition into spring is a wonderful time for growth and renewal, and even small, intentional shifts can have a lasting impact on our overall well-being.

Slow Down and Practice Mindfulness

As we get caught up in work, errands, and our social calendars, it can be easy to let the additional daylight go unnoticed. However, this is a perfect opportunity to slow down and be present. Mindfulness can help us stay grounded and appreciate the little moments of life.

Here are 3 ways use mindfulness and appreciate this time of year:

• Notice the Small Details: Get outside for a walk with intention to pause and pay attention to the sensations around you. Notice the warmth of the sun, the fresh air, and the colors in the sky. Ground yourself with these sensory details to center your mind and body.

• Breathe Deeply: Take a few minutes to focus on your breath. Close your eyes, breathe in for four counts, hold for four, and breathe out for four. Repeat this four or five times.

• Practice Gratitude: Before bed, take a moment to reflect on three things you are grateful for from the day. This simple practice can shift your mindset to one of positivity. 

Embrace the Mood and Productivity Boost

The shift to more daylight isn’t just a pleasant change for the eyes – it also has a profound effect on our mood and energy levels. 

More Sunlight = More Serotonin!  Science tells us that exposure to natural light increases the production of serotonin in the brain, which helps improve mood and reduce anxiety.  It can also help regulate your body’s circadian rhythm, which in turn helps improve sleep, reduce feelings of depression, and boost energy levels.

While the early sunset can make us feel like the day is over and we need to get ready for bed, the extra daylight in the evening allows more time for focused, productive work. Use that extra hour to finish up a task you’ve been putting off, complete your to-do list, or build momentum for the next day.

Create Meaningful Rituals

The extra daylight provides a unique chance to create rituals that nourish your well-being. Whether you are a night owl or an early bird, consider how you can spend your longer days in a way that aligns with your needs.

Rituals can include:

• Starting a creative hobby: Whether it’s painting, knitting, writing, or photography, the added daylight hours can give you time to explore something new or engage in a creative pursuit that you love. 

• Unwinding with a calming activity: Use your extra daylight for a quiet moment of reflection through journaling, reading a book, or meditating in the peaceful evening light.

• Connecting with loved ones: The extra daylight makes a great time to spend with family and friends to catch up on your day and make lasting memories. 

Remember that small changes can lead to big shifts.