Spring: Spring into action to improve your health
As the weather changes across the seasons throughout the year, so do the potential risks to health. On this page, find many useful tips, tricks, and guidance that can help you and those around you to stay safe and protect your health whatever the weather.
As winter starts to fade and spring approaches, take advantage of the new season to improve your health and wellbeing with these six steps.
Make use of the brighter and longer spring days to spend more time outside
soaking up vitamin D from the sunshine. Vitamin D can help improve mood,
immunity and reduce negative feelings and emotions. Natural light
can also give you a boost in energy.
With the anticipation of longer days and more sunlight also comes an increase
in UV exposure which can damage your skin, therefore please consider wearing
a minimum factor 30 sunscreen if you are spending time in the sun.
Aim to strike a balance between protecting yourself from the sun and getting
enough vitamin D from sunlight.
For more information see:
Sunscreen and sun safety - NHS
.
Spring days are longer, giving more time to be active. Shake off the winter
blues by incorporating movement into your daily routine.
Whether it's taking a walk or trying out a new outdoor sport, find
activities that you enjoy. Exercise releases endorphins, the body's
natural stress relievers, allowing you to de-stress and feel better.
Spring is also an opportunity for gardening, which is a great way to connect
and be creative with others, while being active and enjoying the outdoors.
To find free activities and meet other people in your local community,
please see
Simply Connect Bromley - connecting you to your local community services
.
The better weather also provides opportunities to connect with friends
and family outside.
Go for a walk together or meet up for a picnic at a local park.
To find your local parks and outdoor spaces see
Parks and open spaces – London Borough of Bromley
.
There are many seasonal foods to try in spring, full of vitamins and nutrients,
these include asparagus, cauliflower and spinach.
Eating healthily and having a balanced diet is beneficial for maintaining
a healthy weight and for overall wellbeing.
For more support and advice please visit:
Healthy weight
.
Spring is also the start of allergy season with an increase in pollen
levels as new flowers, grass, and seedlings bloom.
To find out more about hay fever please visit
Hay Fever and Allergic Rhinitis | Allergy UK | National Charity
or speak to your local pharmacist for advice.
As spring brings about new beginnings, take the opportunity to practice
mindfulness in your daily life.
Engage in activities that promote present moment awareness, such as meditation,
deep breathing, or simply appreciating a cup of tea outdoors.
Mindfulness helps reduce stress, increase self-awareness, and enhance
overall wellbeing.
For resources and support based on mindfulness, visit:
Mindfulness exercises and tips - Mind
.
To aid good sleep, avoid food, caffeine and alcohol near bedtime and try
to establish regular sleep patterns.
For more information, resources and support, visit:
Fall asleep faster and sleep better - Every Mind Matters - NHS
.
Sunlight
Get active and socialise outside
Seasonal foods and healthy eating
Allergies
Practice mindfulness
Sleep