Spring has sprung! Flowers are blooming, the sun is shining and the streets are bustling with a happy-go-lucky energy. However for many of us, busy schedules and commitments make it hard to take advantage of the season and stop to smell the newly bloomed roses. Here are a few proactive ways to refresh your soul and enjoy the warm spring season:

Learn a New Skill

Have you always wanted to learn how to play soccer? Ultimate Frisbee? Paint? Spring is a great time to get cracking on your personal to-do list. Why not join a recreational sports team and find a new community while learning a new sport? Take a landscape painting class and get to the park to work. Or just hop into your local craft store and find things that inspire you and make some outdoor art! There’s so much creative and mental inspiration that comes from being outside. Finding new skills or re-discovering hobbies that you’ve always wanted to try can be an exhilarating way to learn more about yourself. Take some time, be adventurous and discover something new!

Find Your Outdoor Zen

Did you know that there are waterfalls in New York City? Meditation spaces in Central Park? Living in the hustle and bustle of New York City, its often hard to find a peaceful outdoor space. But they do exist! Do some research, ask some friends and find your outdoor zen space in your own hometown. “I need a vacation” is such a common phrase thrown around during this time of year, take one without going anywhere!

Get Out Of Town

But, if the need for adventure sparks, honor it! Getting out of town doesn’t need to be a big event. Plan a Sunday day trip and don’t be afraid to go solo. Hit the road and rent a car with friends. Take a train upstate and do some hiking. Get back in touch with people you haven’t seen in a while. Simply getting out of your everyday environment and finding a new landscape to explore can be a healing and renewing experience. You might even meet some new people along the way!

Spring is a special time of year, take advantage of it and remember that you hold the reigns of your own happiness and health. Enjoy the outdoors, find new ways to connect to your community and spring into action!