Days are getting longer, the difference between the night and daytime temperatures are becoming more extreme- the sap is beginning to rise. The slowness of winter is beginning to shift to the creative stirrings of spring. The “waking up” of deciduous trees and emerging plants this time of year applies to us as well. It’s time to start asking ourselves: “How can I help my body, mind, and soul make this shift?”

Move.  The “sap is rising” within you, and needs open pathways to flow. To help your energy flow smoothly, try gentle exercises that open up the joints (such as simply making circular motions with each joint in both directions), stretch your muscles (yoga is great for this), and get your blood flowing with some cardio work. This will support your body during this seasonal transition.

Write.  The simple practice of free flow writing for 10 minutes will unclog the creative pipes. You can start with a prompt such as I feel…. , or my desires for today are…. and then set a timer for 10 minutes. Don’t stop, even if you think you have run out of things to say, just keep putting words down! Paper and pencil are preferable for this exercise. Again, we are assisting our mind and body to flow after the slow and introspective ways of winter.

Plant Medicine. There is a vast array of life springing up in our yards, woodlands, and fields. Take time to notice the new plants that are emerging, even if it is for 5 minutes. Allow yourself to connect fully with what you are experiencing in nature. Try to receive this moment as a gift- this is nourishment on all levels.

In early spring, the first plants to rise are often medicinals to help up with the transition from winter to spring. Plants such as dandelion, chickweed, violets, burdock, nettles, and cleavers help to cleanse and nourish our liver, kidneys, and blood. These nourishing and tonic herbs are perfect to take as herbal infusions.

Create and Play. This is nourishment for your soul! The natural world is busy creating right now and that calls us to do the same. By creating and playing, we are tapping into our passions, opening our hearts, and igniting creativity. We become more inspired to play more fully in life and offer our unique gifts to the world around us. Simply pick one way you can create or play, and make it a part of your day. When starting something new, or bringing back something you haven’t done in a while, keep it simple and keep it going. Ask yourself: “In what ways do I like to create or play?” Your “sap” will rise in powerful, transformative ways.

Blessings to you all as the sap begins to rise and please keep in touch if I can be of service to you.