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Thriving this Spring Equinox
Tips for Coming Out of Hibernation
Heather Rafanello, MSW, LCSW
@GrowingMindsetTherapy
If you’re in NJ, you may have noticed the sights and sounds have been changing over the last few weeks. The sun is shining, temperatures are rising, and the birds are singing away. Spring is here, and as the Spring Equinox approaches, we’re here to share some tips for how to come out of hibernation, and how to blossom with the season.
Set your Intentions
What is it that you hope to accomplish this season? We encourage our clients to use the holidays, and the seasons to serve as tangible times to check in with yourself, whether you chose a word for the year, created a vision board, or set those silly New Year’s Resolutions (if you’re new here, check out this article next - you can thank us later). *Disclaimer* Please be sure to do this in a non-judgemental manner - rather than feeling frustrated about your progress, take a moment to appreciate the fact that you now have the opportunity to get back on track, reflect on what was working and what didn’t work the first go around.
In addition to checking in on preexisting intentions and goals, establish new ones. Perhaps you want to go a little deeper with those former intentions, or perhaps you’re ready to shed them and start anew, either way this is a great opportunity to look ahead at the path that you want to take.
*Therapist recommendations - use this time to accomplish two things: 1. Cleanse & Declutter, and 2. Restore Balance (check out our Instagram to learn more about this @GrowingMindsetTherapy)
Create a plan
Growing up with ADHD, I learned early that I need to have a list, or a plan before tackling any big (or small) task. Even ‘simple’ things like cleaning my house require a mini list to help me stay on track. Whether you have ADHD or not, we encourage y planning ahead - whether that’s a full blown brainstorm and written plan, or simply just thinking through the steps that you’ll need to take - a plan can help to organize your time, keep you on track, and foresee potential roadblocks.
Know your limits
Like a baby tree, we too need to grow our bark - that strong external layer - to protect us. We all have limits, and there is so much strength and power in being able to not only know your limits, but to get ahead of them. Not only do we want to set limits, but we want to know (ahead of time preferably) when we’re nearing reaching them. Doing this allows us to take a step back before we over pour, snap, or burnout. We truly believe that this foresight is true intelligence, strength, and sustainability.
Nourish yourself
Our final tip also invites you to consider looking to nature. Like the blooming trees and flowers, we too need sunshine, water, and nutrients. Reflect on what it is that you need, and consider who and what in your life provides that for you. Perhaps it’s the people in your life, or maybe it’s some alone time, it could be mindful movement, geting fresh air, the options are literally endless. This step is very individualized, and truly looks different person to person, so our biggest tip here is to spend a little time getting to know yourself, and your needs. Whatever lights you up, on a deep level, wrap yourself in it regularly both in preparation for a storm, and after the storm has passed.
Trust the Process - Don’t rush it!
The best things take time - and what a timely season to sit in this hard truth. The trees bloom, ever so slowly; the snow melts away drip by drip, the days get longer minute by minute. You too are a part of this natural progression. Many of our therapy clients come to sessions with big emotions, trauma, and challenges that they’re working through, and this process, much like nature’s blooming, the best things take time.
We have a tendency to forget that we too are part of this natural phenomenon, and just like the seasons, we go through changes. We can look to nature and learn so much about ourselves, and this beautiful blooming season can be a perfect time to learn some big lessons.
DISCLAIMER: This article is not intended to treat, or diagnose and medical conditions, nor is it a replacement for mental health or medical treatment. If you or someone you know is in need of clinical support, our team is able to provide therapy services to those in NJ and FL. Contact us to learn more. If you or someone you know is in need of immediate support please contact emergency services. U.S. Mental health crisis line: dial 988 ; medical emergency dial 911.