Winter is over, the snow is gone, and walking to class is starting to feel a bit easier. Yet, we may still be experiencing leftover winter symptoms. Fatigue, apathy, and a slight pinch of pessimism might be trying to take up room in our minds. According to the weather and the clocks, spring has made its grand arrival. We now have a choice to make: let the winter effects hang on for a bit longer, or switch gears and grow into this new season.Â
Easing into spring, we start to feel the warmth of the sun on our skin, almost like the feeling of seeing a good friend from the past. Flowers peek their heads above the ground, looking to see if it’s safe to emerge. Even the squirrels around campus know there’s a song of growth playing in the wind. Recognizing these changes makes us excited for a new era of ourselves, but it’s not enough to only view the transformation of our home, we have to do the same for ourselves.Â
The symbolism of spring spans far and deep, representing not only change but new beginnings and inspiration. The Neurofeedback and Counseling Center of Pennsylvania explains this concept: “Mental health is essential at every stage of life as it affects how we think, feel, and act. It even influences how we handle stressors, make decisions, and joys. With spring, we can achieve inspiration and renewed motivation to strive for the change that got stagnant during the colder winter months.” This explains why it’s important to unthaw your motivation that was frozen. Doing so will push you into new territory, waiting to be explored.Â
Where do you start?Â
As cheesy as it seems, go outside! Being able to connect with nature in a personal way positively affects your mind. Walking in the newly adapted environment, looking around to see the life about to be built around you, and even smelling the fresh air can spark a fire in you. Getting inspired isn’t as difficult as it seems, having an open mind to be inspired is the only thing in your way.Â
The rejuvenation of spring is able to enhance our mindset by giving us things to look forward to. Not only do buds on the trees, green grass, and sunlight give us hope, it’s the things that spring is associated with. The arrival of spring marks a significant point in the semester, meaning the academic year of work is almost over. It reminds us that summer months are on the way. Plus, it even shows us how long months of gloom never last forever.Â
As spring makes its way into your life this year, the best thing to do is welcome it. Don’t just appreciate what spring does for you, appreciate what you can do for yourself because of spring.