Spring!
We have said it before and we will say it, again, instead of January 1st, Spring is the beginning of the year for us, at queeniebrownmagazine.com.
Spring represents new beginnings, growth, and vitality, making us want to run, skip, and click our heals or just chillax on a patio - any patio.
So, welcome to Spring Renewal!
Did you know that 'renewing' is an important part of living a healthy lifestyle? It's a great time to give your body, mind, and spirit a much needed boost as the days get longer (don't we just love watching the sun as it lingers in the sky later and later?) and the weather gets warmer (isn't it grand shedding those layers of clothing).
Spring cleaning is the usual start to welcoming the season. Decluttering the living space, donating unused items - even creating a space that is inspiring - is a great way to get the body moving!
If you are one of those people who cannot seem to help yourself when it comes to running around your home, cleaning, you are in good company. You are not the only one who sees spring as a time to get the house in order. Spring cleaning has a long history, dating back centuries to various cultures around the world.
The tradition of spring cleaning was a way to usher in the new season and prepare for the year ahead: Ancient Persia, for example, practiced "shaking the house." This occurred on the first day of spring, which involved thoroughly cleaning the house from top to bottom. This tradition was also practiced in Jewish households during Passover which falls in the spring. In China, spring cleaning was a common practice before the Chinese New Year, which typically falls between January and February. In Europe, spring cleaning became more popular during the Middle Ages, as it was believed that the warmer weather would help dry out the dampness and mold that had accumulated during the winter months. It was common to air out bedding and clothing and do a thorough cleaning of the hearth and fireplace.
Once the cobwebs are cleared, so to speak, you may feel ready to clear your lungs and breathe fresh air. It is perfectly natural wanting to get the body moving with a regular exercise routine - even if it is just walking around the block or skipping through a field of growing grass, watch out for ticks!
You may also be inclined to eat better, lighter, healthier; incorporating delicious fruits and vegetables that are in season. Increasing these foods could leave you with increased energy for more walking, running, gardening or general enjoyment of the out doors.
Finally, you may find yourself in the practice of mindfulness and deep breathing, connecting to the self and the natural world around you as you rest to do it all over again.
Spring renewal is about taking the time to refresh and reboot - a wonderful step to feeling your best and encouraging a healthy, robust, lifestyle.
Speaking of Longevity...
If you believe building muscles is only about bulk and a desire to look, feel and be strong, think again. Building muscles also encourages a longer life span.
Muscles play an important role in promoting longevity by improving overall health and reducing the risk of chronic diseases. Muscles contribute to longevity through:
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Increased metabolic rate: Muscles require energy to function, and the more muscle mass you have, the more calories you burn, even when you are at rest. This increased metabolic rate can help maintain a healthy weight and reduce the risk of obesity, which is a major risk factor for many chronic diseases.
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Improved insulin sensitivity: Building muscle can improve insulin sensitivity, which is important for maintaining healthy blood sugar levels. Improving insulin sensitivity can reduce the risk of type 2 diabetes and other metabolic disorders.
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Improved cardiovascular health: Muscles play an important role in supporting cardiovascular health by improving circulation and reducing the risk of heart disease. Regular exercise, including strength training, can help lower blood pressure, reduce inflammation, and improve cholesterol levels, all of which can contribute to a healthier heart.
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Improved bone health: Strength training can also help improve bone density, reducing the risk of osteoporosis and fractures, which are common in older adults.
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Increased functional capacity: Building and maintaining muscle mass can also help improve functional capacity, allowing you to perform daily activities more easily and with less risk of injury. This can improve quality of life and independence.
You heard the expression, use it or lose it!
Building and maintaining muscle mass through regular exercise, including strength training, can provide numerous health benefits and improve quality of life, especially in older adults.
So, let's not lose it, let's keep moving!