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As flowers begin to bloom and birds make their way back across the states, it’s clear that spring has sprung. This new season doesn’t just symbolize renewal, but a time for birth, growth, and nurturing. When it comes to our mental health, however, our minds don’t always automatically reset.
With warming temperatures often comes the pressure to “feel better.” It’s sunny out, so our anxiety and depression should phase out, right? Sometimes, but that’s often not the case for many.
Instead of seeing spring as a season that magically fixes everything, we need to reframe it with proper lenses. Spring, like any other season, has the power to reset our souls, but it can only do so if we prioritize intentional care over passive change.
Why Spring Affects Mental Health
When Spring finally arrives, many of us start to feel a lift in seasonal symptoms. With less darkness and more time outside, we may find ourselves less depressed or anxious. This isn’t just a fluke. According to the University of Nebraska–Lincoln, “one of the biggest benefits of spring is the increase in sunlight, which naturally boosts mood and energy levels by enhancing vitamin D production. Warmer weather also encourages more outdoor activities, allowing us to engage in physical exercise, which is known to reduce stress and improve mental health.”
Spring affects our mental health because more sunlight has the ability to shift our mood. However, this isn’t the case for everyone. As our schedules change and daylight increases, we also begin to face the pressure of being more active and productive. The University of Nebraska-Lincoln adds, “while many enjoy the positive aspects of spring, others may find certain changes challenging. Increased social expectations can lead to pressure or anxiety, especially for those who prefer solitude or struggle with social interactions. If large gatherings feel overwhelming, consider solo outdoor activities like walking, reading in the park, or simply soaking in the sunlight for a few minutes each day.”
Growth can feel uncomfortable during these seasons, but that doesn’t mean it’s not worth embracing. If you’re itching to care for your mental health this spring and want some fresh ideas to spruce up your routine, try one of these 10 tips. If one works for you, great. If it doesn’t, try another and see what works best for you. Remember: Time invested in your mental health is never wasted.
10 Practical Ways to Care for Your Mental Health
1. Get Outside Daily: We all know that getting outside into the fresh air is good for us, but have you ever understood why? Sunlight, fresh air, and nature all have incredible mood benefits. According to the American Psychological Association, this is because “spending time in nature is linked to both cognitive benefits and improvements in mood, mental health, and emotional well-being.” When we feel connected to nature, we reap the benefits of well-being. From five minutes to five hours, getting outside tends to our souls well.
2. Gently Reset Your Routine: When Spring arrives, sometimes we’re tempted to do it all. We wish to overhaul our entire routines and wonder why we burn out quickly. Instead, try gently resetting your routine with small and simple adjustments. Adjust your bedtime and reduce screen time before bed. Start or end your day with gentle movement and make your morning routine as peaceful as possible.
3. Declutter Your Space: Like Spring cleaning, we can declutter our hearts, minds, and souls. Yes, the external environment affects our internal state, so keep physical spaces as tidy as possible. But also don’t forget that what you think about, feed yourself, and nourish your soul with, also matters, too. Pay attention to what you’re consuming and declutter those spaces.