Your Spring Wellness Guide

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For me, mental health is the prime factor in regaining balance in our lives from the stress of the past year which we’ve all experienced. Here are a few simple ways to find comfort, boost your immunity, and support your mental health to regain physical and mental balance.

Mental health. For those of you who experience “monkey mind,” the best antidote is to take time to meditate or to do breath work. “Calm” is the #1 App for mediation, relaxation, and sleep. It also provides video lessons on mindful movement and gentle stretching. “Wellness travel” is another trend with the idea that you travel slower, nearer, and mindfully. Now that most people have been vaccinated, it’s time to travel back to visit with friends and family we’ve missed this past year. There is nothing more soothing than a hug or smile from a loved one. I am also a firm believer in taking daily walks, which gives my mind and body a boost. We recently hiked the north entrance to Blydenburgh Park off of New Mill Road in Smithtown. Once a farm-to-mill market, you can hike around Blydenburgh Lake or Stump Pond Loop for approximately 6 miles. Historic buildings mark the site and it’s part of the Long Island Greenbelt Trail.

Comfort. Since many people are opting to work from home, “althleisure wear” is continuing in its popularity. At Marshall’s, for example, they have a large selection of comfortable outfits already lined up on the racks for women, men, and children. If you are dressing up for date night, it’s a good time to put on jewelry, makeup, and something that’s attractive, yet still comfortable. Unfortunately, we can’t always give in to our more laid-back side.

Immunity. To increase and strengthen immunity it is suggested to take antioxidants such as vitamin E, krill oil, astaxanthin, and vitamin C, which neutralize free radicals in the body (mercolamarket.com). Sign up for a free e-book as well as Dr. Mercola’s health newsletter at mercola.com. The benefits of eating a plant-based diet can help to lower blood pressure, improve your cholesterol, keep your brain strong, minimize the risk of stroke, decrease the risk of cancer, ward off diabetes and help you lose weight. For optimal physical and mental wellness this spring, be mindful to wear a mask when necessary, wash your hands, maintain social distance where appropriate, get vaccinated, and go outside for some good old vitamin D from the sun. Lastly, don’t forget to plant some flowers! Happy and Healthy Spring to all!