The hibernation wake-up is finally here, daffodils are blooming, evenings are getting brighter, and the clocks are going forward. Yes, spring has finally landed! The perfect time to shake off the winter blues and get outside and get active. The season is renowned for new beginnings and transformations and symbolises starting fresh and starting over. We notice a positive change in the environment and the people around us which in turn, helps us to feel more energised and happier.
So, whether you’re looking to explore new walks, meet new people, try a new hobby or declutter your home we’ve got you covered with our ‘Spring into Action’ guide to help you get the most out of this season. Tips for more family time, more you time (mums and dads!) and better overall mental and physical wellbeing so the whole family will blossom.
GARDEN ART – Hopefully you’ve noticed some tiny shoots beginning to appear and the odd daffodil here and there. Injecting a splash of colour into the mix will bring nothing but happy, positive vibes to a garden that’s been in hibernation for the last few months. You could add a pop of colour by painting the garden fence or freshening up flowerpots. Have younger little Picassos create some chalk masterpieces on the paving giving them the opportunity to explore things like shape, colour and perspective. Pick up some self-adhesive mirror shapes and stick onto a fence or wall to give the garden some reflective dimensions. Anything goes when it comes to livening up your garden area so get creative and enjoy!
‘DADVENTURES’ – A big focus on men’s mental health has been long overdue and thankfully there is greater awareness on this issue today. It is equally important for you dads to meet up, chat, have a walk or a coffee as it is for the mums. Find a local group in your area to connect with other men such as a Men’s Shed, the local gym or even start your own group. You could take inspiration from DadBods NI, a support group for men caring for young children who meet regularly for walks, share parenting tips and offer support. You’ll be pleasantly surprised at the number of dads, or male carers who are in a similar situation to yourself and want that male connection as a parent or caregiver.
EXPLORE MORE – We are fortunate to live somewhere that is abundant in nature walks, whether it be woodland, coastal or mountainous, there’s something to tickle everyone’s fancy. Getting out with the family and exploring will help to not only build physical fitness but overall emotional wellbeing too. Walking can help you sleep better, improve your mood, encourage children to appreciate nature and gives you uninterrupted family time away from screens. There are plenty of free, family-based activities happening this month. Check out our fantastic WOW guide for some options.
SPRING STARGAZING – An engaging and magical way to teach your children about basic astronomy concepts and spot some constellations. If you live in a rural area and have a trampoline you could create a cosy night-time retreat with pillows and blankets and amaze your little ones (and yourself) at the beauty of the night sky. Live in a town or city? Find a safe location and either use a large picnic blanket or sit on the bonnet of the car to capture the stars. Make sure and go prepared with lots of warm layers and a flask of hot chocolate for a warm drink. You don’t require any equipment for stargazing although binoculars and telescopes will capture more than our eyes will ever see.
MUM TIME – Looking after yourself is the most important thing you can do for the betterment of not only yourself, but your children too. Taking some time away from your home, partner and kids and focusing solely on yourself will really work wonders. Spring is the perfect time to try some outdoor yoga, sea-swimming, wellness retreats or even a simple walk on your own or with a family member or friend. With Mother’s Day fast approaching you could even request that your partner and kids book you in to try something you’ve wanted to do for ages. Whether it be wind surfing, kayaking, photography or rock- climbing, indulge in yourself and show the kids that mum needs time too.
SPRING CLEAN – The thoughts of it may send shivers up your spine, or may release your inner Marie Kondo, but de-cluttering your home will make your life so much easier and manageable. You could design a de- clutter schedule and focus on one room, or one category a day per week if it feels too overwhelmingly. Then gradually build up to two days and then three, and you’ll likely be getting the hang of it and feeling the benefits at this stage. Sort you clutter into boxes for recycling, charity shops, and general waste. To maintain a clutter free existence after the ‘clutter- athon’, you could try methods such as the ‘One in, one out’ rule where when you bring a new item into your home, you need to get rid of something to keep things balanced and equal.
PICNIC IN THE PARK – Rally all your family and friends to have a ‘picnic in the park’ fun day. Get each family, or friend to make something to share with everyone, tasty sandwiches, fruit skewers, homemade buns, carrot and celery sticks with humous always go down a treat at picnics. Enlist the help of older kids to be in charge of organising the games and activities for everyone. You could have a mini Olympics with each family competing, or adults versus kids, a big parachute game, sack race using pillowcases, egg and spoon race or create a fun obstacle course using everyday items from your house or garden. This is a great way to get everyone outside in the fresh air and sun (hopefully!) and let off some energy.
CREATIVE WRITING – Why not use the season of spring to explore your inner poet and start writing a journal, poetry, or perhaps you’ve always had an idea for a short story? This is a fabulous activity for children to enjoy too, as it gets them to tap into their thoughts and feelings while practising writing skills. You could pick the season of spring to start off and take the kids for a nature walk, getting them to jot down any feelings they have, things they spot and their experience of the walk after. Creative writing allows you to develop your own unique voice and express how you feel without limitations. It has a definite feel-good factor that will benefit the whole family.
FRESH PRODUCE – Spring is the perfect time of the year to concentrate on building up your immune system. Focus on eating fresh fruit and veg from your local store which is high in natural minerals and vitamins to replenish your body after the winter months. Eating seasonally works wonders for your immune system, plus the food will be much tastier. You could introduce some new colourful dishes to mealtimes and help to build a healthy relationship with food for the whole family to enjoy.
Hopefully this guide will help you to decide some simple ideas to really put a spring in your step. And remember, most importantly to have fun with it! Nothing should feel tedious or exhaustive. It’s all about enjoying time either with yourself, your children, with family and friends and feeling the benefits of spring.