- Capitalize on the sunshiny days and spend time outdoors!
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I know this may seem like a given, but I think we all sometimes need a reminder to do the simple things. Days have gone by in which I’ve seen the sunshine outside of my window but have had to ask a friend in the midafternoon what it’s like outside because I haven’t ventured out of the building yet. Don’t let the drudge of online classes keep you in your room when the world outside is waiting to warmly greet you! Make time for a walk, get some reading done on the grass, sit on a bench and just take a moment to look around. I believe one of the miraculous things to come from our COVID safety protocols is the presence of students filling outdoor spaces on nice days. It’s a simple, free pleasure we can capitalize, and it goes a long way in boosting mood. So don’t forget to get a dose of Vitamin D when you can.
- Buy yourself flowers
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I know spring allergies can be the downfall of many, so perhaps this suggestion isn’t for everyone, but if you don’t suffer from itchy eyes and a sore throat when the flowers start to bloom, I suggest you treat yourself to a colorful bouquet. Martins always has lovely, reasonably priced fresh flowers that brighten days. So bring a bit of spring inside your room or buy those pretty pink tulips for a friend to spread the smiles around!
- Embrace some brighter, or lighter colors
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Whether it be your clothes, your nails, your makeup palette or anything that brings you joy — be bold and be bright! My wardrobe consists of a lot of neutrals, and I am of the school of thought that you can never go wrong in black, but for Easter, I put on a kelly green dress and embraced the whimsical beauty of spring. It can be fun to change up the usual light pink nail color with a fun pastel blue or purple or a bright yellow! As my friend rocked a fabulous hot pink dress for Easter, she admitted to being hesitant about putting on such a bright color. I say do it! Let’s awaken from winter with boldness.
- Take the time to notice the smells outside
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The other day, I stepped out of class and took a deep inhale — that distinct mixture of wet earth and clean air filled me up. Again, I understand allergies can be brutal, and masks may make it a tad harder to swallow those big gulps of air. But take notice of the way spring smells. Even the stench of mulch speaks of new life and an awakening earth.
- Remember that better times are just around the corner.
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Without rushing too much ahead of yourselves, it is important to remain hopeful that the warmer weather is ushering in a better future. Out of the darkness and gloom this past year has cast, the sunshine on my face has been a reminder that we’ve made it through so much, and as we keep moving forward still, we will be greeted with better, safer, healthier tomorrow.