Move Forward This Spring with These 8 Attractive Benefits:

Springtime in the Houston area is a breath of fresh air, after a typically uneventful winter. So, here's to embracing the pleasant changes that 2021's Spring will undoubtedly bring! Spring signifies numerous positive shifts, such as rejuvenation, purification, and growth – no matter if you're a fan of warmer seasons or not. It's a time brimming with benefits for everyone.

1. Bid Farewell to Darkness, Welcome Light

The first change is daylight savings time. Spring is when we eagerly "spring forward," meaning an hour of sleep lost but more daylight at our disposal. Although this tradition dates back to 1918, its roots lie in 1895 when New Zealand entomologist George Hudson came up with this concept to prolong his summer bug-hunting hours [1]. Yes, it does save energy and allows us to make better use of our daylight.

2. A Symphony of Birds

Another fantastic transformation in Spring is the return of migratory birds. Spring is a season of reproduction for these avian travelers, as they search for mates. The sight and sound of birds flying and singing are undoubtedly gratifying parts of the spring season. Remember, "Bluebirds are a sign of Spring; warm weather and gentle south breezes they bring." [2]

3. A Green Cityscape

Alongside the charming birds, the other great change is relentless growth. Leaves return, plants bloom, and trees regrow their lush foliage. Around mid-March, trees begin sprouting new leaves, creating beautiful outdoor shade. The burgeoning growth is crucial for keeping cities cool, as trees release water back into the atmosphere through evaporation, cooling down the surrounding areas by up to 9°F (according to the EPA) [3].

4. Sun and Plants – Nature's Air Cleanser

While leaves are busy cooling us, the sun is also aiding in photosynthesis and growth. As plants thrive in Spring, they convert sunlight, carbon dioxide, and water into nutrients, releasing oxygen in the process. This helps our breathing environment significantly, especially now.

5. Delicious Bounty for Your Plate

Spring heralds the arrival of a bountiful harvest of fruits and vegetables. Indulge in all that nature has to offer – mom always knew best when she told you to eat your greens! In a 2016 study of more than 12,000 Australians who increased their fruit and vegetable intake, researchers found that they felt happier and reported higher rates of life satisfaction [4].

6. Blooming Beauty

Lastly, the crowning glory of Spring – flowers – emerge in all their glory. These resilient perennials sense the longer days and warmer weather, conserving energy for months, only to burst into vibrant bloom. A 2008 study found that having flowers in hospital rooms helped patients feel more positive, reduced their pain and anxiety – once again, proving that nature is a healer of body and soul [5].

7. Get Outside and Exercise

As you bask in the joy of these positive vibes in the air, consider opening your windows for some fresh air and get moving! Exercising outdoors naturally boosts energy levels and is more enjoyable than indoor workouts [6].

8. Enjoy Houston's Natural Wonders

This Spring, take advantage of the Houston area's many offerings. If you're an adventure aficionado, kayak through Buffalo Bayou. Water lovers can enjoy a boat ride at Lake Conroe. Fitness enthusiasts can run the outer loop at Rice University, while nature lovers can explore the arboretum trails at Mercer Botanic Gardens or admire the beautiful flower trails. Make sure to drop by Harris County's Baldwin Boettcher's Little Blue Library and indulge in some outdoor reading [7].

Whatever you choose to do this Spring, remember—step outside, let go of the winter blues, and embrace the renewal that Spring has to offer. Happy Spring, everyone!

For additional reading materials, check out our recommended books on Spring and related subjects [7]:

"Flower Garden Problem Solver" by Jerry Baker
"Grow Vegetables" by Alan Buckingham
"Happy Home Outside" by Charlotte Hedeman Guéniau
"Get Fit, Stay Fit" by William E. Prentice
"Heralds of Spring in Texas" by Roland H. Wauer
"The Victory Garden Companion" by Michael Weishan
"60 Hikes Within 60 Miles" by Laurie Roddy
"Maker Projects for Kids Who Love Exploring the Outdoors" by Sarah Levete
"Outer Order, Inner Calm" by Gretchen Rubin
"Decluttering at the Speed of Life" by Dana K. White
"The CHAOS* Cure" by Dana K. White
"Natural Meditation" by Marla Cilley
"100 Hikes of a Lifetime" by Kate Siber

[1] https://www.timeanddate.com/time/dst/history.html[2] https://www.almanac.com/meet-birds-spring-spring-equinox[3] https://www.houstontx.gov/parks/article/318885/things-to-do-in-houston-parks[4] https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC5887571/[5] https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC2364866/pdf/envhyp00382-0293.pdf[6] https://www.msn.com/en-us/health/fitness/exercising-outdoors-boosts-immunity/ar-AA10J7L2[7] https://houstonlibrary.org/

As the city landscape blooms with new life, families can take a visit to Harris County's Baldwin Boettcher's Little Blue Library, a charming addition to Spring activities that encourages outdoor reading and learning. With the growing number of houseplants and the revival of gardening among kids, books such as 'Grow Vegetables' by Alan Buckingham and 'Happy Home Outside' by Charlotte Hedeman Guéniau can help them cultivate a green thumb and establish a passion for a sustainable lifestyle. As young readers immerse themselves in these books, they not only learn valuable skills but also engage in an enjoyable activity that promotes mental health and well-being.