By Leigh Currey Merrifield
I don’t believe I’ve spoken to even one person in the past few weeks who hasn’t emphatically said, “I’m sick of this cold weather!” I agreed with them and I’d guess that many of you feel the very same way – possibly a little down and depressed, moody, and maybe even cranky! But being inflicted with that kind of attitude is not good for us; we need to change our outlook and focus on the positive … what is to come.
And what IS to come? Well, our clocks moved forward on March 8 th , and then the first day of Spring is March 20 th , so maybe think ahead to celebrating longer hours of daylight and seeing green grass and a few flowers perhaps beginning to burst into bloom! Since I’ve suffered through this like most of you have, I’ve read a lot about the benefits of sunlight and how it affects our well-being AND our happiness. Do you know what all takes place thanks to the sun shining? It’s not just changes in nature, but changes in us as well. According to what I’ve read, we will feel better both physically and emotionally. Just 20 minutes of sunshine can lead to sleeping better, feeling less stressed, enjoying an energy boost, improving our cognitive function, and even smiling more!
Each of those positives is pretty powerful, but lump them all together, and it spells pure joy! Let’s try not to just take it for granted, but be grateful for it when it occurs.
Believe it or not, being grateful and appreciative of what brings us joy also contributes to our well-being. Perhaps one of our faults is that we don’t pause to give enough notice and thanks for what brightens our days and what makes us happy. When was the last time you stopped and admired the stars in the night sky? Do you simply open a window when it warms up outside, or do you stop for a moment, take a deep breath, and be thankful for the opportunity to enjoy some fresh air and hearing the birds sing?
Put the frigid winter behind you; and open yourself to the joys of Spring. Take a few moments to rejoice and enjoy feeling the warmth of the sun, watching the trees turn green, and all those little things that are perhaps just taken for granted. Welcome and enjoy the upcoming season and give thanks! Don’t ignore ANYTHING that makes you happy – even the little things!
Quote of the week: “The promise of spring’s arrival is enough to get anyone through the bitter winter.” ~ Jen Selinsky
