Blooming buds and flowers signal a new season. It’s a good time to build some new habits and spring clean your health. Even small changes can add up and make a difference, so consider these six tips.

1. Take a regular walk. Or work up your garden. With warmer temperatures, it’s time to get outside. Put your shoulders back and breathe in some fresh Spring air. Daily physical activity can make a major difference in your health. Even a short 15-30 minute walk around your neighborhood gets your muscles and bones moving. Do that consistently three-to-four times a week and enjoy the benefits, including higher energy levels and probably some toning up and weight loss.

2. Soak up some sun. In moderation, the sun’s rays usually do a body good. Sunlight on exposed skin promotes the production of the feel-good serotonin hormone (which can also help you sleep better) and also produces body-building Vitamin D (but make sure not to over-do it – avoid getting sunburned).

3. Enjoy and fill up on a plate of fresh vegetables. Spring means the appearance of freshly grown local vegetables and fruits. Check your local markets for fresh berries, bell peppers, zucchini, squash and more. Wondering how to cook it all up? There’s plenty of good advice online – here’s one option: check out this link on How to Be a Cook Who Can Make Any Vegetable Fun to Eat. https://www.thekitchn.com/how-to-cook-vegetables-22954206

4. Drink plenty of water. It’s a fact that even mild dehydration – not drinking enough water – can contribute to tiredness, low energy, and even headaches. Many people start their day with a full glass of water. Strive to drink about 6-8 glasses of water a day. And remember that sugar-flavored drinks may add fluid, but they also contribute a lot of empty calories. Develop the habit of carrying a bottle of water with you and regularly take a sip all day long. By the way, drinking a full glass of water right before a meal can help you lose weight. Water-packed watermelon, cantaloupe, celery, lettuce and spinach also help promote good hydration.

5. Get your rest. Longer Spring days mean more daylight in the morning and evening, which means you can reset your sleep habits. Getting up around the same time everyday in times of daylight can help get your body (and mind) in a good routine and rhythm.  Avoid eating a large meal within at least two hours before bedtime, and try to stay off phone and laptop screens, which exposure can confuse natural processes and inhibit the production of sleep-inducing melatonin.

6. Schedule a regular checkup with your provider. Thinking about launching a new regime to lose weight and build muscles? Your medical provider can give you personal help to get you started on the right path.