Spring is finally here; it seems the especially long and snowy winter Hingham experienced has finally come to a close. With the cold and depressing days nearly gone, many individuals are eager to start getting more vitamin D and feel that sense of happiness whenever spring rolls around. To help get all you are able out of the spring season, here are some suggestions that are proven to boost your mood.
Running is a great way to stay in shape and get a happiness boost. While running, the body releases endorphins, a chemical that provides a sense of accomplishment and lasting contentness. Running in the winter is often a struggle due to the dry air and chilling winds that increase the odds of injury, but spring is arguably the best time to hit up the local park and run a mile or two.
There is more oxygen in the air, because the trees have come out of their dormancy, and the weather is warmer, so you won’t have to worry about hurting yourself as much. Preston Molitor, a Freshman, described his passion for running in the spring, stating, “I think the best part about running in the spring are the evening sunsets over the Back River in Bare Cove Park. Whenever I finish a run, I like to look out over the water and drink in the wonders of life. Quite poetic words from such a young fellow.
Another way to increase happiness is by simply being outside more. In the spring, the sun is out for longer, which gives the body more vitamin D as opposed to in the winter, where it is dark by 5:00 pm. Reading, walking, or just sitting and enjoying nature can have large effects on one’s health. Casey Solerno, a Junior, likes to take full advantage of this time. Casey’s favorite springtime outdoor activity is “Hanging out [and] walking around Derby Street or downtown with my friends.”
Being outside more often in spring can bring wondrous effects. Just make sure to put on a little sunscreen in the later part of spring so you don’t end up looking like a tomato.
Finally, a somewhat obvious tip for raising happiness is to clean your room/area of dwelling. Cleaning up a space is definitely not enjoyable for most, but the brain works better in a space free from clutter. Constantly having a messy room with junk all over the floor raises cortisol, and we all know what the long-term effects of that are. In the minutes before sports practice or right before you have dinner, take a moment to clean up a bit and then sit back and watch as you start to have a more positive outlook on life.
Spring is an exciting time of year, with new beginnings bringing forth a new era of life. Take these tips and use them to make your spring enjoyable through an otherwise stressful 3rd term.
