Today we spring forward and set our clocks ahead an hour. That’s supposed to mean we lose an hour’s sleep, but I held on to mine this morning anyway. We could all use the extra rest. Now that spring is in the air it got me thinking of the dewy smell of the fresh earth, birds chirping, buds peeking out, and yes, even spring cleaning. It’s time to get rid of the clutter – out with the old and in with the new, I say! And while we’re de-cluttering our homes and closets this time of year, why not do a little personal spring cleaning on yourself as well. This is the best time of year to detoxify and revitalize your body, mind and spirit.

It’s hard not to pack on the pounds over the winter; it’s cold, it’s dreary, and we find ourselves eating heavier and more starchy foods which contribute to that extra weight gain. Spring is the best time of year to shed those extra pounds and get your body ready for the summer. The best way to cleanse the system is with a detoxifying diet and fast. Drink lots of water with drops of freshly squeezed lemon juice, eat a bunch of fresh fruits and vegetables, and try staying away from carbs and red meat. Once you’ve passed that hurdle, you might want to intensify the diet by eating only raw vegetables for a few days accompanied by lemon water. Spring cleaning your body will help give you that needed boost of energy to help you feel healthier, rejuvenated, invigorated, and more alive. Plus, the benefits it will have on your overall skin and appearance is another welcome bonus.

Cleaning our minds might be a little more difficult as this requires discipline. While spring seems to be one of the busiest seasons, it’s also the most important time to recharge and refresh the mind. Many people go into a kind of mental hibernation during the winter and fall into a pattern of stagnation. When spring rolls around, you almost don’t know what to do with yourself anymore. Tap into the vibrant and buzzing energy on the earth and allow it to jolt you into a more alert mental state. Once your body has cleansed, you’ll find yourself thinking more clearly, feeling more inspired, and being more creative. Let spring put a spring in your step and help you make a shift in your thinking patterns so you can begin to live the life you desire.

Spirit is always replenished when we give of ourselves and share with others. Spring is the perfect time to do this. After clearing out your closets and homes, find what you don’t really need or use and donate it to charity and those less fortunate, or just give it away to someone you know will make use of it. Not only will you be getting rid of the physical and energetic clutter in your life which is weighing you down, but you will also be welcoming and clearing the space for new and wonderful things to enter into your life. Sharing with others will allow your entire being to feel lighter, happier, and more at peace.

So don’t just spring forward this spring, spring up, down and all around. Let the creative juices flow into you and the lively energy of the season inspire and motivate you to a brighter and happier life.

~ Daniela Masaro