Seasonal Transitions

As spring peeks over the horizon, birds practice their song and plants shake off the frost. Join them in celebrating the season with these tips for a healthy spring.

• While pollen drifting into your home can churn up allergy symptoms, interior allergens may be more to blame. Start by replacing all your pillows — some experts contend that after 5 years up to 10% of the weight can be attributed to body ash, bacteria, mold, fungi, and dust mites. Invest in allergen covers for your new head cushions and wash cases at least once a week in hot water.
• As the days gradually lengthen, more sunshine pours through your windows. Use the extra daylight as an excuse to wake up a little earlier. Studies suggest that early birds tend to be healthier than night owls. Try a morning walk to get your heart pumping and expose you to vital vitamin D.
• Slip on those gardening gloves and get dirty. Not only does tending to your landscape engage your body — burning up to 350 calories an hour — research shows it can help reduce stress, depression, and anxiety. Plus, pruning your yard exposes you to earthy elements… a healthy array of microbes that challenge your immune system to get stronger.