Springing

Carrizo Plain, northeast of SLO

Even on the central coast, where winter lies lightly upon us, there is something magical about spring. 

The first day of spring fell last week; did you notice?  Go outside today and breathe in deeply; take spring in.  There are scents in the air, new colors, and I am not kidding about this, the birds sing louder.  Go quiet and listen.  It is something about their mating habits, I believe; their songs are quite insistent.

Spring is a force of nature.  In our automotive, technological, white-noise lives, we may not notice, but when the whole top half of the planet is doing a wake-up dance, it will have its effect on us whether we notice it or not. 

Our bodies, inasmuch as they are part of the natural world, are also awakening to spring.  It just happens.  We don’t cause it; we can’t regulate it; it just is. 

We can rejoice in it, though!  We can make the most of it.  

When winter, even California winter, begins to recede, we come alive in a way that is different from all the rest of the year.  Our “hibernation” instinct goes dormant.  Have you noticed any lessening of your appetite?  That often happens very subtly in the springtime. 

Do you notice that your interest in fresh fruits and vegetables is sharper?  Are you a little more prone to choose something fresh than something processed?

Are your feet beginning to get restless?  That slightly uneasy feeling you may have... could it be yourself wanting to get outside and work your body a bit?  Could it be a craving for more fresh air, more sunshine, more walking? 

Everything that happens naturally as a result of springtime is great news for those of us pursuing health and well-being.  The forces we’ve fought against all winter... early drowsiness, craving for comfort food, that “slow” feeling that keeps us inside under a blanket with a book in our hands... are in retreat. 

And now, we feel a little call from the outdoors.  Suddenly, a hike sounds like a really pleasant idea.  The produce aisle has more colors, berries are coming back.

Go outside!  Be a part of this wonderful process of spring that comes to us each year, renewing our spirits and bodies.  See if you can feel the whole natural world waking up.  The wildflowers will soon be out in force.  The bees and hummingbirds are revving their engines.  The hills are getting greener. Everything is growing. 

If you have an ache in your heart, take it outside for soothing.  If you have a lowness of spirit left over from winter, let nature minister to you.

Even if you have been outside every day this past winter, go outside today with fresh eyes and a fresh heart.  There is something wonderful happening out there, and we are a part of it. 

Today, be springtime!