Spring Clean Your Health

by Laurie Richardone

As we contemplate the arrival of Spring with childlike anticipation, there are many reasons to love this time of the year. It’s the season of possibility… We have long awaited entry into more daylight, and this is a boost to our mental health:

Schedule in some time to walk around the neighborhood and take in the greenery, and bursts of color, that start to blanket the city. This will surely lift the spirits, in addition to lowering cortisol levels, the stress hormone. Spring is a favorable time to rethink our diet with lighter seasonal ingredients. Rest assured, There is no “right” way there is only what works for you. Go on an internal quest, with a hint of curiosity, and an intrepid explorer. It will reveal what your body is asking for. Checking in with yourself with a quiet mind is a wonderful way to cultivate intuition, and is a bene cial practice for your wellbeing: as it opens the doors to clear decisions. Once we know what is best to feed our body each season, It does take a bit of discipline to shift what we normally eat. After a long winter, there’s nothing more welcome than celebrating spring with the sight and avor of new colorful, tasty ingredients: arugula, mustard greens, asparagus, and peas are all starting to come available at the farmers markets. The good news is: By eating with the seasons it will create a reset both in the mind and body. This way of feeding ourselves adds to better digestion, which all supports an uplifted frame of mind. Tips for Success One thing that helped me was to keep a journal of everything I ate in the day. Also,noting what is going on when I crave certain foods? If I am feeling stressed or sad, I lean into unfavorable choices. We all do this to some extent. Be gentle with yourself! We can always start anew. It’s helpful to have someone hold you accountable, like a good buddy or a health coach. Personally, When I have someone that I am accountable to, I am more likely to be set up for success. It doesn’t have to be a daunting task to make a shift in your health, you can start by incorporating one small thing at a time.

What if? It is as simple as having a twelve ounce glass of fresh lemon water upon waking, before that yummy cup of coffee, or tea touches your lips. I love starting the day with an energizing green smoothie: made with plant based protein, such as hemp or chia seeds, a bunch of leafy greens, and a couple of nutritious Medjool dates, or a handful of berries. It’s more delicious than you might think. During this wonderful time of renewal, allow fresh Spring ingredients to clean out the habits of winter. To your good health ~

If you are a curious cook, join me on my Podcast

~ A taste for All Seasons ~ It is a cooking, cultural, and inspirational way for us to explore the world of food. And… as always, l will share a seasonal recipe, cooking tips, and kitchen essentials that will inspire you in the kitchen. You can listen to all the shows, on Spotify, Apple Podcast, and Google Podcast. We talk to local farmers, and wellness experts, where you can learn how to cook your way through the seasons.

Laurie Richardone is a seasonal gluten free chef and certi ed health coach.