We survived another winter, and spring is finally on the horizon. As the outside world begins to show signs of renewal in the form of budding trees and fresh blooms, it feels like a natural time for renewing ourselves, as well. For some, that involves a detox — a process that involves cleansing and nourishing the body. But for others, just the word evokes images of long, harrowing hours at the gym with nothing for fuel but carrot juice. The good news is that a detox doesn’t need to involve putting your body through extremes. In fact, the process can be as straightforward as making some common-sense choices about exercise, environment, and what you eat and drink. Here are a few simple steps you can take to shake off the last remains of the winter blues and get your body ready for spring.
Surprise Your Body - We all know that exercise is crucial for leading a healthy lifestyle. Because of this, many of us regularly engage in workout routines that we both enjoy and benefit from physically. But sometimes, what the body needs for a real refresh is a surprise. Fortunately for residents of The Kent condos, there are plenty of options for changing up an exercise routine. If you’re dedicated to the treadmill, try spending a few days a week swimming laps in the 55-foot heated pool. If you never miss a yoga class, try incorporating a day of weight training into your routine. As you put your body through new motions, you’ll target new muscle groups and should see results relatively quickly.
Get Outside - After spending several months mostly indoors or beneath a low, steel-gray ceiling of clouds, an afternoon of sunshine and warm breezes can be incredibly stimulating. With Central Park just a brisk walk from the Upper East Side residences at The Kent, spending time outdoors is a refreshing and rejuvenating pleasure you can enjoy whenever the mood strikes. Beyond adding a little physical activity to your day, time in the sunlight and amidst the blooming tulips is a surefire way to boost your mood and energy levels. Of course, if you’re going to be out for long periods of time, be sure to smooth on some sunscreen!
Eat More Greens - Your diet has a direct effect on your physical state. And winter, for better or worse, is a time when many of us embrace the city’s excellent selection of comfort food. After a while, that heavy fare will weigh you down. With spring just around the corner, take advantage of the Greenmarkets on the Upper East Side and stock up on plenty of fresh vegetables. In doing so, you can get your greens, an invigorating walk, and your daily dose of sunshine all at once. You’re likely to feel a difference, even if you incorporate just one green vegetable into every meal.
Drink More Water - Drinking water is one of the easiest and most effective ways to detoxify the body. And yet, many of us neglect to do it. Between the coffee and cocktails we tend to rely on for warmth during the colder days, it’s easy to find yourself feeling parched by the end of winter. (According to the Mayo Clinic, the often-repeated advice about drinking eight 8-ounce glasses of water a day is actually very reasonable for most people.) So, make an effort to up your water intake, whether that means carrying a reusable water bottle with you throughout the day or committing to starting each morning with a tall glass of lemon water. Your body will thank you.