15 Ways to Stretch Yourself this Spring

Physically, emotionally, or relationally

As the outside world roars back to life, something inside of us awakens, too. Perhaps it’s the abundance of vitamin D or the sweet smell of blossoming opportunity–either way, Springtime has a way of cultivating a sense of renewal in each of us.

That’s why, every Spring, we like to host a campaign with each of our Spire clients called “Stretch Yourself.” The idea is to take this revival of energy and focus, and channel it into something that will enlighten you, push you, or stretch you to exciting new limits.

Whether you’re chomping at the bit and ready to take on a new healthy habit or still looking to get out of a dreary wintertime rut, try one or more of these 15 Ways to Stretch Yourself, this Spring:

1. Write a blog post. Don’t have a blog? Start one! (Or try journaling, first.) Writing allows you to express yourself in ways that might otherwise be difficult to articulate. Plus, it gives you a chance to be creative and perhaps relieve some stress.

2. Try a new recipe. Excite your palate. Maybe you’ll discover a new favorite food or ingredient…

3. Stretch yourself, literally. Stretching keeps the muscles flexible, strong, and healthy, and we need that flexibility to maintain a range of motion in the joints. Not into yoga? No problem! Check out the Mayo Clinic’s Guide to Basic Stretches.

4. Read a new book. Reading stretches our perspective, and can introduce us to new people and places. Plus, reading is good for your brain!

5. Unplug. Try tech-free Sundays!

6. Power nap. 20 minutes boosts alertness, 30 minutes helps you feel physically recovered, and 50 minutes heightens creativity, says Michael Breus, Ph.D., sleep expert and author of The Sleep Doctor’s Diet Plan.

7. Kick a bad habit. Can you go caffeine free for 10 days or stay off Facebook during the workday? Test your willpower and discipline!

8. Swap seats. Befriend someone new at work, school, or the gym. Make them feel welcome.

9. Step it up. Set a goal and try to hit it each day. It doesn’t have to be 10,000… Establish an objective that will stretch you, but that is still attainable.
[Not sure how to track your step goal / progress? We recommend Spire FIT. It’s free!]

10. Say “Yes.” We get so caught up in our own lives that we often forget to help those around us. If someone asks a favor, say “Yes.” Pay it forward.

11. Thank somebody. An attitude of gratitude goes a long way. Make it a point to express thankfulness and appreciation for someone. Make it known, whether face-to-face, on a call, or through a text or email.

12. Train differently. That ab machine thingy isn’t that scary…okay, maybe it is, but try it anyway!

13. Date night, his/her way! Ask your significant other what he/she would like to do for date night. Do it their way!

14. Practice mindfulness or meditation. Get your Ommm on!

15. Address one of your weaknesses. We all have strengths and we all have weaknesses. Identify something that you’d like to improve on and take a step towards personal development.

So what do you think? How will you stretch yourself to new limits this Spring? Let me know in the comments, below!