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Health & Fitness

Take time to enjoy our long-awaited spring

After months of frigid temperatures and one snowfall after another, it seems spring finally has arrived. Now is the time to shake off those winter doldrums and breathe in some fresh air. Everyone, whether they are 8 or 80, can benefit from a little time outdoors.

I’ve compiled a list of 10 ways that caregivers can encourage their client or loved one to enjoy these warm, pleasant days between winter’s cold and summer’s heat.

  • Take in a Little League game. It’s free, and nothing says springtime like an afternoon at the ballpark.
  • Visit a playground. Enjoy the fresh air and sunshine while you watch the children play.
  • Plant a flower or hang a basket – watching something grow, and caring for something makes us feel good.
  • Make a pitcher of lemonade and sip it on the front porch.
  • Stroll through the plant section of the local home improvement or big box store and enjoy the bright colors and fresh fragrances.
  • A small change can go a long way. Freshen up your living space with a colorful new throw pillow, a pretty new bedspread, or placemats to brighten up the table.
  • Hang a bird feeder outside, then sit back and watch as your home becomes a favorite hangout for all sorts of winged neighbors.
  • Know someone who could use a bit of springtime cheer? Send them a pretty card or handwritten letter. Chances are you will feel good, too!
  • Nothing smells better than sheets that have been dried in a warm spring breeze.  No clothesline? Just toss the pillowcases over a chair or a porch railing for a few hours and sleep tight tonight!
  • The birds are singing, and so are your local school choirs. Every school has a spring concert, and most are free! Check out our calendar of free and affordable events, including spring concerts, at www.maryandmikecare.com/events. It’s updated the first of every month with new things to do in the month ahead.

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