SPRING HAS SPRUNG

The days are growing longer, night breezes are blowing warmer and all of nature is new again. What better time of year to dust off your walking shoes and gardening gloves and spring into ways to Be Well. Stay Well.

Get out and enjoy the sunshine!

Sunlight leads to stronger bones, better moods, clearer thinking, and may even help with joint mobility. Don’t forget your sunscreen, though, and if you suffer from seasonal allergies, remember that pollen counts are usually lowest in the mornings.

Recharge your batteries!

Enjoy healthy spring foods like tender asparagus, strawberries and new potatoes; do gentle stretches; and get a good night’s sleep. Be sure to change the battery in your smoke detectors, too, if you didn’t do it when you changed the clocks for daylight saving time.

Water is for gardens, and bodies,

too!

Aim for 6-8 glasses a day, more when you exercise. One easy way to know if you’re staying hydrated: your urine should be clear to pale yellow. If you feel even a little bit thirsty, your body is telling you it needs more water.

Keep it cool!

Fresh air and birds chirping can boost your mood, lower your heart rate, improve your energy level and even help with digestion. Dress in layers to adjust to changing temperatures, and make sure your fan or air conditioner is ready when the heat starts to rise.

Brush up on oral health!

You know the drill… brush and floss twice daily and visit your dentist regularly. Try an electric or batterypowered toothbrush or water flosser for an extra layer of clean. If you struggle with dry mouth, sugar-free citrus, cinnamon or mint candies or gum may help. Some medicines can cause dry mouth, too, so talk to your doctor or dentist. Wake up refreshed!

Aim for 7-9 hours of sleep each night. For the best rest, go to bed and wake up at the same time each day in a dark, quiet, cool room and limit naps to one short siesta each day. A sound machine, sleep mask or ear plugs may help bring on the ZZZs.