For many of us Easter is the time when we emerge from our Winter mindset and start to notice the lighter nights, the onset of Spring and the better weather.
Let's look at some ways to really kickstart the process of emerging from the short days and long Winter nights:
- Enjoy the colours around you and let them energize you. Spring flowers have been in bloom for a little while now so enjoy the lovely colours and new life that they signify. Freshen up your home and introduce bright colours. Flowers, cheerful touches like lighter furnishings, cushions, pictures can revitalise your home. Prepare your garden for planting; even a small patch can bring pleasure.
- Many people like the idea of de-cluttering in Spring. Clear away accumulated junk. Put away your dark Winter clothes and add brighter colours to your wardrobe. As you change from your Winter to lighter Spring clothing decide which items are out of date and need to be let go. Some of those items will benefit from being passed onto the Charity shops.
- Review your New Year's Resolutions and decide if they could be adapted, reintroduced or amended. If you gave up something for Lent now could be a good time to set goals which keep you focussed on improving your life. Renewing your commitment to improved confidence and a better quality of life is a good way to start feeling motivated again for Spring.
- Commit to going out as a family. Look out for special offers as many family attractions start to open their doors again at Easter. Petting zoos, parks with animals, country walks all offer hours of free entertainment for children, as they gaze with fascination at the new-born ducklings, lambs and other young animals. Enjoy the outdoors as a family, play ball games, go walking or bike riding and bring exercise, adventure and bonding, all for little or no expense.
- As the light nights return commit to becoming more active again as a person/family/couple. Winter is often a time when people come home, close the curtains and settle down in front of the television. Now that it's over and Easter is upon us why not decide to introduce a regular walk, meet up with friends for early supper; become more proactive, rather than waiting for someone else to make suggestions.
- If you have children studying for exams manage their stress levels by providing regular breaks, structured external interests and healthy snacks. An occasional diversion will allow them to manage their stress levels and then return to their studies re-energized and able to concentrate better.
Make the most of the coming lighter nights and warmer weather. Whether you're single, a couple or a family there is the potential now to start emerging from the Winter months, enjoy the opportunity to get out and do more with the extra light hours available every day.
Susan Leigh, Altrincham, Cheshire, South Manchester counsellor, hypnotherapist, relationship counsellor, writer & media contributor offers help with relationship issues, stress management, assertiveness and confidence. She works with individual clients, couples and provides corporate workshops and support.
She's author of 3 books, 'Dealing with Stress, Managing its Impact', '101 Days of Inspiration #tipoftheday' and 'Dealing with Death, Coping with the Pain', all on Amazon & with easy to read sections, tips and ideas to help you feel more positive about your life.
To order a copy or for more information, help and free articles visit http://www.lifestyletherapy.net