Spring: A season of relaxation, celebration and growth
The trees and flowers are budding, the animals are chirping (or honking or howling), and Mother Nature has offered each of us yet another opportunity for a fresh start. Being able to grow as individuals and as partners is a big part of what spring is all about. It is the season of rebirth and renewal, and we need to use this time to make our lives the best they can be.
Some people get a case of spring fever. They just want to kick back, while the earth is warming up, and do a little less with their lives. There is nothing wrong with this approach to the new season, and if you have the time (and the ability) to relax, I believe you should take it. Life can get complicated, and giving yourself a break will help you rebuild your energy supply so it’s available the next time you need it.
Another way to celebrate the spring is to work on personal or relational growth. Of course, this doesn’t have to be only seasonal. In fact, it should happen all year long. But why not use the energy of spring to help propel you in that direction you’ve been dreaming about? Give yourself permission to reach for those things or for the depth of love that you’ve been craving. You may be a little surprised by how invigorating this can be.
Research tells us that couples who do new things together on a regular basis have closer and more productive relationships. Having positive adventures with your partner creates brain chemicals like oxytocin (aka the cuddle hormone) that make you feel more bonded, so it’s natural for you to enjoy the company of the one you love a little more.
The freshness of spring can also bring out our personal creativity. Perhaps we are inspired by the same energy that makes the flowers bloom. So it’s a good time to put that creative energy to good use, whether it’s to make home improvements or to take up oil painting or to go on an ocean voyage to a faraway land. You get the point. Let the season inspire you.
The season of spring is also known as a time when our hearts are more open to love. If you aren’t in a relationship, this is a good time to start looking, because other people are feeling the same way. Your chance of finding a partner actually improves at this time of year. But nothing will happen if you sit at home just waiting. You have to take action to bring that new person into your life.
This is a time of year when you can make things happen, both internally and externally. If you get an idea, act on it. If you want to be closer to the ones you love, let them know it, and do something to show how much you care. If you want to grow as a human being, the opportunities are endless. All you have to do is take that first step of bringing something new into your life.
Barton Goldsmith, PH.D. is an award-winning psychotherapist and humanitarian. He is also a columnist, the author of 8 books, and a blogger for Psychologytoday.com with over 35 million readers. He is available for in-person & video consults worldwide, reach him at Barton@ Bartongoldsmith.com.