Spring's Renewal: Navigating Seasonal Changes

(mouse clicks) (ethereal tune) Headspace Studios. Hi friends, it's Rosie here. Welcome to Radio Headspace and to Monday. Can you feel it? The gentle breeze rustling through the trees, the vibrant colors of spring flowers and the promise of a fresh start? Spring is always an excellent reminder for me to slow down, to take a moment to bring in the steadiness and ease of the cycle in nature. Today we're gonna talk about embracing the gentleness of spring, while also breaking through the challenges that some of us face during the changing of seasons. (ethereal music) Springtime has always been one of my favorite times. As I learned more about wellness, I discovered the importance of the changing seasons and how it impacts our mental wellbeing. Growing up in Southern California, we never experienced changes in seasons. I remember looking at those calendars posted along the wall of our kindergarten class and seeing the flowers blooming in April, the sunshine in July, and the snow falling in December. Of course, I had never seen or experienced an actual winter. I loved watching films with snow, and when I moved to Portland for a few years, I got to experience just that. In the Pacific Northwest, the transition from winter to spring is truly awe-inspiring. One of my fondest memories is witnessing the cherry blossoms in full bloom. As I crossed the Burnside Bridge, I was greeted by a breathtaking display of pink and white. A symbol of renewal and hope. Springtime brings with it longer days and warmer weather, allowing us to embrace the outdoors and reconnect with nature. It's a time to pause, reflect, and appreciate the beauty that surrounds us. But that first season, that first transition from winter to spring, that's one I will remember for the rest of my adult life. Coming from Southern California where the weather was relatively consistent year round, I struggled to adjust to the colder temperatures and the shorter days of winter. The lack of sunlight took a toll on my mood and energy levels, making it challenging to stay positive during the darker months. I had never experienced SAD, seasonal effective disorder until I moved to Portland. I remember counting 21 days of no sunlight. It's wild to not be able to see the sun for over two weeks. The effect it had on me was palpable. It affected every area of my life. But that first season, that first transition from winter to spring, that's one that I'll remember for the rest of my days. It wasn't just the arrival of warmer weather and longer days. It was a profound shift in perspective. It taught me resilience and the importance of seeking support during challenging times. Through mindfulness and the support of loved ones, I was able to navigate the darkness of winter and emerge stronger and more appreciative of the beauty that each season brings. Mindfulness is a powerful tool that helps me stay grounded and present, especially...