5 Tips For Living Each Season To The Fullest
Do you feel like you spend too much time inside? You’re probably right…
Before I was a farmer/grower, I was a “career woman” with a commute and a 50 + hour work week (I know many of you can relate). I live much differently now, and like my life more. I didn’t know living a life more connected to nature and the seasons could make me happier. You may not live on a farm like me, but you have options for embracing the seasons.
My 5 tips for living with the seasons that can bring more joy to your every day.
1. Embrace whatever the season is.
Too hot or too cold? Tough love Lanny (that’s my straight-shootin’ alter ego) would say… Being uncomfortable is good for growth! Don’t make excuses, get a walk in early if it is hot or sit on your porch with a warm blanket and cup of coffee on cold days. Being “present” in each season makes you appreciate the best parts of the seasons to come. For example, have you ever watched spring come alive in the woods? 10/10 recommend. Make a commitment to get out there at least 1x a week at the beginning of spring to see the growth.
2. Be intentional about the time you spend outside.
It is so easy to eat meals in front of the TV or stick to your indoor workout routine at the gym. Set the intention you will eat 3 meals a week outside (in the warmer months) and will spend 10-30 minutes outside at least 3x a week. For most of human history, humans lived in close connection with nature. Our brains are still wired to benefit from being outside. Even looking out the window when you need a reset in your workday can renew focus. Imagine what 30 minutes can do.
3. Make the most of each season.
Do #allthethings spring, summer, winter, & fall. Make activities like making pine cone bird feeders in spring, juicing seasonal summer fruits, carving pumpkins, and holiday baking part of your family traditions. You will have something to look forward to each season! Perhaps you’re already feeling like you have too much to do. I hear you, pick at least one seasonal thing to do per spring, summer, fall, and winter to help bring awareness to the season. Being appreciative of where you are can help you be more mindful and appreciative of what you do have. Your activities and gestures do not have to be BIG things to be special.
4. Make the summer harvest season stretch to all seasons.
Summer is the best time to find locally grown fruits and veggies. They’re abundant and at their peak flavor during summer. Freeze them & can them! Getting to enjoy summer corn or homemade tomato juice in December will take you right back to the warmer months! I also love to freeze seasonal fruit to make a quick dessert sorbet when having company over. Guests’ minds are blown when they get to taste a summer peach in March.
The final tip for fully enjoying the seasons…
5. Have the right gear.
Be prepared when you plan to be outside, you’ll have a more pleasant experience! Here are some things I suggest you keep in mind for gear:
Layers go a long way y’all for peeling off AND staying warm in frigid temps.
HATS. Keep your head cool or warm – this is where your body looks to regulate heat/cold. A hat on a hot day, must.
Polarized sunglasses, gotta have um. Much less strain on the eye. When our eyes become tired, we feel tired.
Good quality tools for working outside (and inside). You’ll get your work done faster and dread it less.
You’re a grown person —get some sturdy waterproof shoes for working outside/hiking. Nobody likes a wet foot. You can go almost anywhere with a hardy shoe.
Drink all the water. Seriously. Our brains do not function well dehydrated, and that is when we start making silly moves that can lead to injury.
What do you find challenging about a particular season? I can help! Or, let me know if you want more info on any of the above activities mentioned. Shoot me a DM on Instagram.
