Springtime is for cleaning and renewal

Spring, Spring, Spring....Most people probably have Spring fever ready to bust out of them. Especially those of us in the Northeast, we need more daylight, sunshine, warmth and freedom from being indoors. The next few days are projected to be in the fifties. Yea! Thank G-d for this taste of Spring.

Spring brings up many different ideas for people. Spring should be a time when we feel less stress (for many reasons). We will once again get more sunlight which gives us more Vitamin D, immunity and smiles. Those with SAD, may begin to come out of their darkness.

Historically, Spring is a time for cleaning and renewal. The flowers and trees will bloom with color, people will plant their seeds for herbs, tomatoes, cucumbers, flowers, fruits and vegetables. Families will clean out their homes from winter and get ready for spring. People will begin to move more as the weather gets warmer and our days get longer.

Spring is actually nature's "fat burning season"
The added benefits of fat burning are huge and go way beyond losing weight!:

* Fat is a calm fuel that burns slow and keeps the mood stable.

* Fat burning neutralizes the disease-producing acids that are caused by stress.

* Fat cells are where we store toxic heavy metals, fat soluble chemicals, pesticides, preservatives and environmental pollutants like estrogenic plastics. When we burn our fat cells, we continually detox. (From John Douillard's web site)


A great way to improve your stress levels, health and overall mood is to take full advantage of this season. It's time to lighten up your diet from the heavy foods you may have been eating throughout the winter. Try to use this upcoming season to begin living within the seasons and the natural cycle of life.

Springtime is a cue (reminder) to cleanse out your body as well. This is a time to get rid of any stored toxins you may have and build yourself up with nutrition, exercise and sleep.

Some easy steps to take to begin your Spring Cleanse:

1. De-clutter your space (Donate, recycle and discard)

2. Renew your daily routine
Wake up earlier
Participate in more outdoor activities
Avoid taking naps during the day
Evaluate time -wasters
Set clear intentions for your time

3. Clean out your fridge and YOUR DIET
Favor a lighter diet
Spring is a time for a lower fat diet
Add more grapefruits, salads, veggies, leafy greens, beans, sprouts and berries
Eat more cooling foods
Add in raw honey
Light, dry foods such as quinoa, beans, and spinach can help balance out fluid
build up in Winter. (funny how I've been craving quinoa lately)
Avoid dairy products
Hot, spicy food (anything with cayenne pepper, cloves, mustard, ginger, black
pepper will do the trick) stimulates sluggish metabolism
Avoid heavy meats and heavy carbs such as bread and pasta (during the Spring)
Eliminate hidden sugars
Keep foods ready to eat in your refrigerator. Use a few hours on Sunday to prepare

4. Consider a short Detox diet or Juice cleanse and beat your cravings
(Check back next week for cleanse and detox ideas to follow)

5. Find a new Fitness Routine
Revamp your routine
Upgrade the music you listen to
Add in weight training
Take your exercise outside
Add walking, jump rope, running, tennis, golf, dog-walking, playgrounds and
bootcamps. Just get outside and get fresh air and sunshine included.

6. Get clear on relationships
Reinvigorate old and current friendships
Know when it's time to move on
Pay attention to your Energy when you are around friends
Know if they are draining you or invigorating you

Stress-O-Mom-oter tip- Get involved in the renewal of Spring. Choose at least 1 thing from the previous list to tackle. Get involved and be accountable. Try planting this Spring. There is nothing better than planting seeds in soil with no chemicals. Water your seeds and take pride in what you are creating. You will be grateful when you are able to put your fresh tomatoes into your salad and sauces. Planting & growing food in Springtime is fulfilling and self-nurturing.

Stay tuned for healthy and fun ideas...

Get outside and enjoy our Spring Preview this Weekend