How to get motivated with slush in your shoe

What is it about spring that puts a spring in our step?

Writer Doug Larsen once said that spring is when you feel like whistling even with a shoe full of slush.

Maybe it’s the warmer temperatures or longer days. Or maybe it’s being able to cast off some of our heavier clothes, abandon the boots and the mitts.

For those of us who live in northern climates, by this time of the year we start to get a little anxious for spring to really arrive. Not just spring on the calendar, but the full awakening of the world that has been asleep through the winter months. Sometimes it seems like we take one step forward with warmer temperatures and then we wake up one morning to a sudden spring snowstorm. Back we go into winter mode for a little longer.

Yet there’s something inherently hopeful in spring, isn’t there?

Spring holds the promise of new beginnings.

Things that have been long dormant once again begin to grow. There’s something reassuring when we see those first green sprouts sticking up, sometimes even through the snow, that reminds us that life indeed carries on.

Years ago I bought some trilliums in Ontario as a reminder of my childhood. Although they are not native to Alberta, I nevertheless packed them in my carry-on bag and lovely transplanted them into my garden. Each spring they may not be the first to emerge from the ground but they are the ones that I watch for as my signal that spring has sprung.

When it does truly arrive, spring has the power to make a real difference in your life. Here are some simple spring pleasures that can remind you of four important personal habits.

These habits also inspire some powerful reflection questions to help you spring forward in your life.

1. Open the window.

The warmer temperatures mean that you can open your windows and let in some fresh air. This is your reminder to breathe. Did you know that the word inspire means “to breathe life into”? We take for granted the power of our breath to both calm and energize ourselves.

Ask yourself:

What in my life needs to be inspired?

2. Enjoy the longer daylight hours.

This is your reminder to get outside. The winter months can take their toll as we hibernate from the cold and dark. Sunlight is a critical component of your mental and physical health.

Ask yourself:

What in my life needs more light?

3. Go for a walk.

Human beings are not meant to be stationary. This is your reminder to move more. Your body will thank you. Your mind and spirit will too.

Ask yourself:

What in my life needs to be set in motion?

4. Get a fresh start.

The earth is doing it so now is also a great time for you to grow something new. This is your reminder to re-energize yourself. Consider ways to be kinder to your body and spirit. Clean out your fridge, start a yoga practice, listen to music, read an inspiring book.

Ask yourself:

What in my life needs to be re-energized?

Be consistent with these 4 personal habits – conscious breathing, getting outside, moving more and re-energizing yourself – and you will be amazed at the difference you feel by the summer.

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What habit does spring encourage in you?