Springtime for Mental Health

With Springtime finally being here I for one am super excited!

Here are some things that I do to improve my mental health in the Springtime.
1) I have been working outside and prepping all of my garden beds to be ready to plant all of my favorite vegetables right after Easter. This year I will be planting Tomatoes in different varieties. Jalapenos, Peppers and Sunflowers. I will also be making some beautiful flower beds for my front porch and yard later when it does get a little warmer outside. Yay.
2) Going outside more often to get some sun. Whether it's walking around in the yard, sitting on my front porch, watching my grandkids play outside when I have them, going for walks or just anything where I'm not stuck in the house.
3) Car shows are starting real soon, so I spend the majority of my Springtime and Summertime with my husband going to car shows. That's also where I get to take some amazing car photography of my favorite vehicles througout this season. So even where we aren't going to car shows, we are taking the old Galaxie convertible out to get some wind therapy.
4) Getting the swimming pool ready for the grandkids. We bought a pool for the grandkids this year, So now I can do some extra little yard work to get that all prepped in the yard and ready to put up. It will be very healing to watch them all swim this summer.

So, these are just some of the little things that I do during this time of year, and it's VERY healing to your mental health.

Here are some other suggestions according to Grok that are great for positive thinking.....

Springtime offers a bunch of natural perks that can lift your mental health. Here’s a rundown of some good stuff:

1. More Sunlight: Longer days mean more exposure to natural light, which ramps up serotonin production—your brain’s feel-good chemical. It can help shake off winter sluggishness and brighten your mood.
2. Fresh Air and Nature: Warmer weather makes it easier to step outside. A walk in the park or just breathing in that crisp spring air can lower stress and clear your head. Plus, blooming flowers and green trees are a visual mood boost.
3. Physical Activity: Spring invites you to move—whether it’s gardening, hiking, or just stretching on the grass. Exercise releases endorphins, which are like nature’s antidepressants.
4. Renewal Vibes: There’s something about spring that feels like a fresh start. It can inspire you to set new goals, declutter your space, or try something new, giving a sense of control and purpose.
5. Social Connection: People tend to come out of hibernation in spring. Outdoor hangouts, picnics, or even a quick chat with a neighbor can combat loneliness and spark joy. 
6. Birdsong and Sounds: The chirping birds and rustling leaves create a calming soundtrack. Studies show natural sounds can reduce anxiety and help you relax.

So get out there and get some sun. Spend some time outside and get out of that dungeon!

Until tomorrow!

xoxoxo, Michelle Neal

What are some things that you do to improve your mental health in the Springtime?