Spring is just a week away and I couldn’t be more excited! We were teased with some beautiful, spring-like days this week, which has me anticipating the longer, warmer days ahead. After spending a majority of the winter curled up on the couch, there is something so encouraging about stretching my legs and being in the fresh air again.
Perhaps it’s the dose of vitamin D or the change from spending so much time indoors, but I always feel way more motivated to get moving in the spring. I always want to take advantage of each second I can be outdoors, and ensuring that I also make time to exercise are some of my top priorities this time of year. Even though I have been an athlete for a majority of my life, I made some lifestyle changes as I was preparing for our wedding that helped me understand fitness and exercise in a healthier way. I’ve found ways to enjoy it without feeling like I have to force it, and one of those ways for me is walking! My mom and I started walking together in the weeks leading up to the wedding, and I found so much joy in it that I just haven’t let it go. I love being able to catch up and chat about our day, while we get our blood pumping. It’s the multi-tasking distraction for me!
While I do try to complete my daily walks throughout the winter, I’m often limited to their length due to the cold air and wind. But with spring’s arrival, I can extend my walks – I like to walk between four and five miles a day – or even add in some alternative ways to get moving like gardening, hiking, playing tennis or even just washing the car!
For me, spending time in the warm and sunshine is usually enough motivation to get me moving, especially on the first few beautiful days of spring. But when I need that extra dose of motivation, I like to treat myself with cute workout apparel and gear. I currently have this set, this top, and this water bottle on my wishlist.
Outside of moving to stay healthy, I know exercise is a great tool that I’ve found helps my mental health. I hope you’ll join me in getting outside and moving your body this spring! What ways do you like to get active this time of year? I’d love to try some of your ideas – you never know what routine you may enjoy!
blissful moments 
Making me want to work out!
LikeLike
Cheering you on, Rachel!
LikeLike
Hi Morgan- I started walking for my mental health a few years ago and it was such a gift! I love turning on a podcast and just walking and walking. Lately though I’ve been doing some other things. I’ve been using the Peloton app. I don’t have the bike, I just go to the gym and do one of the Peloton classes using their bike. I LOVE those classes! They are so awesome! The culture is very much inclusive- all bodies are welcome and it’s not about pushing yourself to beat someone else, it’s about doing what’s best for you- also good for mental health. 🙂
Glad to meet you and look forward to getting to know you more!
LikeLike
Hi Jen! Yes – walking is so good for mental health. My favorite time to walk is early on a summer morning, just after dawn, to start my day. I’ve heard really great things about the Peloton classes too! I might have to check them out. 🙂
LikeLike
Hi,
it is always a good idea to engage the body in at least 30 minutes per day in some sort of moving exercise even if this is just walking but what I like the most about your post is your confidence to pose for it… Great!
LikeLike
Aww, thank you! The new outfit helped with that 🙂
LikeLike
I’m also getting motivated to get outside and get moving after the winter and having my baby in October. I’m a hibernater in the winter and staying active is not my thing during that time
LikeLike
Congratulations on your new addition! Hope you have some warm weather soon for some outdoor strolls! 🙂
LikeLike
I like hiking and jogging!
LikeLike
I personally enjoy walking, and taking, with you :).
LikeLike
I personally enjoy walking and talking, with you 🙂
LikeLike
One of my favorite things!
LikeLike