Winter months are full of holiday parties, family gatherings, and cozy nights spent next to the fire. For many, it’s easy to fall off the wellness wagon during this time of year. Not to worry. Spring has finally arrived, and with it the opportunity to freshen up your wellness routine with these simple “spring cleaning” tips.

1. Get Cooking – Dining out is a common social event, especially during the winter months when many try to avoid the cold slap in the face that becomes the great outdoors. But restaurant dining and take-out can easily add inches to your waistline. Spring is the perfect time to get back in the kitchen and create balanced meals that support your health and wellness goals. If you need a little help to get started, sign up for a meal delivery service like Hello Fresh, or consider trying out a new cooking class.

2. Stock up on Seasonal Produce – Choose local, seasonal spring produce like broccoli, asparagus, scallions, and baby bok choy. Local produce is bursting with flavor and also supports farmers and protects the environment from long distance delivery systems. Consider signing up for a Community Supported Agriculture (CSA) to gain exposure to new vegetables and cooking methods while reaping health benefits from ultra-fresh farm foods.

3. Don’t Stress: Getting back on track with diet and exercise after a week vacation seems challenging, let alone an entire season. Not to worry, we’ve got you covered. Remember to load up on lean protein, low-fat dairy, and a variety of colorful fruits and vegetables. Cut back on added sugars from processed foods, sugary beverages, and desserts; and opt for whole grains vs. refined carbohydrates from white flour. Stick with plant based fats from nuts, seeds, avocados, and olive oil and get moving. Now is the perfect time to try out tennis, take a jog outside, or plan an afternoon bike ride. On extra nice days, plan a picnic and go for a long hike.

*Sources:

http://www.prevention.com/health/healthy-living/12-spring-updates-for-your-health-routine/slide/1

http://www.runnersworld.com/nutrition/five-ways-to-spring-clean-your-diet

http://www.doctorshealthpress.com/food-and-nutrition-articles/5-healthy-eating-tips-improve-diet