Twelve things to do this Spring

Twelve things to do this Spring

1. Early Morning Brisk Walk: Starting my day with a brisk walk as the sun rises is incredibly rejuvenating. Inhaling the crisp morning air, listening to birdsong, and feeling the freshness of a new day is the best gift ever. We are truly blessed by nature. 

   
   

2. Riding a Bicycle: Spring brings one of my favourite activities – riding a bicycle. Feeling the cool air against my face is invigorating, especially along the backdrop of the lake. Not only is it a great workout, but it also allows me to immerse myself fully in the surrounding beauty of nature.

   
   

3. Visiting a Flower Garden: The beauty of spring blooms is everywhere. Whether wandering through a flower garden, farmer’s market, or strolling around my neighbourhood, I am surrounded by vibrant colours and intoxicating fragrances. Spring is also the best time to buy reasonably priced flowers.

   
   

4. Walking in the Rain (Light Rain): There's a certain nostalgia associated with walking in gentle spring rain. Playing in the rain was pure joy as a child, and as an adult, I still yearn for that carefree feeling.  I enjoy stepping out without an umbrella, embracing the cool raindrops on my skin, and immersing myself in the tranquillity of a spring shower. The rhythmic sound of raindrops hitting leaves and pavement adds to the serene experience, especially near the calming waters of the lake.

   
   

5. Starting a Garden: Cultivating my garden space is lovely, too, during springtime. Whether it's in my yard or now a balcony, experimenting with various plants, flowers, and herbs brings me immense joy. There's something therapeutic and deeply satisfying about nurturing new life and witnessing the beauty of nature unfold.

   
   

6. Outdoor Quipong or Tai Chi: While I haven't had the chance to try this yet, I'm eagerly looking forward to practicing one of them in the tranquillity of nature this spring. I don’t if I will have the boldness to take this indoor activity outdoors, but maybe I will join a group. I am sure it will be a fulfilling experience. 

   
   

7. Nature Photography: I am passionate about photographing the beauty of spring landscapes, flowers, the blue sky and wildlife. On my walks most mornings, I am amazed at the beauty surrounding us. Everything lends itself to capturing life at its best, from wildflowers to lakes to the ducks lazing on the canal. 

   
   

8. Watching the Sunset and Sunrise: Catching a sunrise is another favourite thing to do in the spring.  Catching A 5:30 am Sunrise is the best way to experience the “handover” of the elements. Watching darkness slowly give way to light as the sun rises ever so slowly, lighting up every dark part of the sky, is an incredible experience. Prepare to stay at least another 40 minutes to an hour to catch the whole ”changing of the guard.”

   
   

9. Enjoying a Spring Salad: Spring's bounty of fresh vegetables, particularly sprouts and young leafy greens, offers a refreshing, tasteful experience. The distinct flavours of spring produce add a vibrant touch to salads, making them a delightful and nutritious choice. Some farmer's markets open early to sell the first fruits of the soil. There is nothing quite like these first vegetables. The taste is fresh, crunchy and light. A drizzle of olive oil with lemon zest or juice would transport you to a world of taste. 

   
   

10. Enjoying Outdoor Picnics: Another timeless springtime activity I cherish is organizing outdoor picnics with or without others. I usually pack a bag with delicious treats, fruit, cookies, and wine - more like fruit juice and I find the perfect spot amidst nature,  usually a large tree that would offer cover from the sun and hide from traffic. I usually take a book along to enjoy while -. The times I spend outside is the best times for me.

    
    

11. Taking a nap outdoors: It is well documented that a 15-minute nap can do magic, but have you tried napping under the open blue sky? If you can find a spot with a nearby lake or river, that would be even better. Nothing restores like the cool breeze and the endless sky.

    
    

12. Walking barefoot on the grass is such a delightful thing to do, especially on a spring morning like today. Wearing shoes gets in the way of feeling the connection with the ground in spring. The fresh grass is still shiny green, having just grown or been forced out of the wintered ground. It feels so soft to step on; the sharpness of the edges is not there, so you think the grass cushions you. There is something about feeling the wetness of the grass from the early morning fallen dews underneath the feet and in between the toes. Threading the feet through the grass, one gets the sense that nature speaks its language,  a language of care,  an invitation to pause, which only makes sense when you can stop and let it talk to you.