Spring is a time of rebirth and renewal, a time to welcome the changing weather and melting frost. While Florida might not experience the latter, there’s always a reason to celebrate the season.
Let things go
Want to participate in some spring cleaning? Rather than Windexing every surface in your apartment or throwing out all of your clothes, consider adopting some practices of the KonMari Method. The method focuses on organizing in categories and deciding what “sparks joy” in your life. For more information on this method, visit konmari.com or binge “Tidying Up with Marie Kondo” on Netflix.
Test out new produce
With the northern frost melting away and the temperatures getting warmer, more produce will be in season. Check back in with local farmers markets throughout the months of April and May, before the popularized summer fruits and vegetables come out. You might be able to find something you’ve never tried before, like rhubarb or Morel mushrooms. Luckily, Florida is full of these markets, and a quick search will bring up plenty in Broward county.
Take a walk
Even though it’s pretty easy to get outside year round in Florida, any excuse to do so more is a good one. Spring is the time of new growth — head to your nearest park and check out what new blossoms are blooming and which plants are budding. Just make sure not to touch or ingest any plant you aren’t familiar with. Additionally, maybe try out the Japanese practice of shinrin-yoku, literally meaning “forest bathing.” Forest bathing is the art of simply being in a wooded setting, taking in your surroundings and becoming at peace with nature. If this is something that interests you, check out Dr. Qing Li’s book, “Forest Bathing: How Trees Can Help You Find Health and Happiness.”
Surround yourself with spring smells
If you can’t find time to head outside and breath in the fresh spring air, there’s no reason you can’t bring the smell of it inside. Consider going to a store like TJ Maxx or Target and sniffing a few of the candles they offer. Scents like spring rain, bamboo or green tea might make you feel refreshed and renewed, while others like jasmine, rose and honeysuckle are more of an ode to spring’s blossoms. Alternatively, find a completely different scent that reminds just you of spring. If you can’t have candles in your room, consider looking up essential oils — check online indie brands for some unique blends.
Care for the earth
To help along the new plantlife, try taking some time out of your day to clean up the environment. You don’t need to plan a large scale beach clean up and package a ton of trash to make an impact. Even just going to a park with a grabber and gloves can be the difference between a clogged spring or a harmed animal. Just make sure whatever you’re doing, the property allows for it and that you’re following proper safety measures to insure you don’t get cuts or contamination.
