Benefits of CBD Oil

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What is CBD Oil?

CBD is the abbreviation used for cannabidiol, which is a compound extracted from the cannabis plant. By diluting the extract with an oil, such as avocado, coconut, or hemp seed, CBD can be used for therapeutic use. Even though CBD is derived from the cannabis plant, it does not contain THC (the psychoactive compound that is found in marijuana). Just as many flower families include several variations, there are different forms of hemp in which these compounds derive. CBD oil can provide therapeutic relief in many ways, with many individuals reporting feeling healthier in areas of sleep, appetite and digestion, mood, immune function, pain, motor control, as well as pleasure and reward centers in the brain.

How Does CBD Oil Work?

After several decades of research, scientists have discovered that the mammalian body and brain house an endocannabinoid system (ECS) with specific receptors located in the brain, central and peripheral nervous systems, digestive tract, immune system, and endocrine system. This is a unique communication system within the body that affect many functions, including how a person may react, think, and move. It is similar to a lock and key model with two primary receptor points. The first primary cannabinoid receptor is CB1 and the second is CB2, both functioning as lock models. CB1 receptors are abundant in the central nervous system, while CB2 receptors are more often found on immune cells, in the gastrointestinal tract, and in the peripheral nervous system. Endocannabinoids are specialized keys that unlock the possibilities of the ECS and strive for optimal balance, or homeostasis, within the body and brain.
Most people don’t know that cannabidiols naturally exist within several systems of the human body.

How Do I Use CBD Oil?

There are multiple methods in which CBD can be administered. Sublingual drops under the tongue and using a vape pen are the most popular among CBD users. These methods have the quickest delivery of symptom relief, due to the high levels of bioavailability. Capsules are also available for oral use; however, the effects may take longer to notice. This is because it is reliant on digestion and absorption factors. Topical application for various skin conditions, as well as chronic pain, and inflammation are becoming more and more popular because the CBD is well absorbed into the skin and tissue.

Among many CBD users have been shown to result in faster relief and relaxation is muscle tissue.

Essentials Medispa & Salon’s Spring Journal Now Available

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Medical Marijuana for Chronic Pain Management

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Chronic pain is the leading cause of long-term disability in the United States. Surveys show that chronic pain affects more people than cancer, heart disease, and diabetes. That is an alarming amount of Americans suffering from pain with no hope for relief. What can be done to help alleviate the symptoms of chronic pain?

What options are available for chronic pain management?

Treatment of chronic pain should encompass a variety of approaches which address a person’s body, mind, and spirit. “What the brain perceives is indisputably modifiable by emotions,” notes Judith Scheman, Ph.D., program director of the Chronic Pain Rehabilitation Program at the Cleveland Clinic in Ohio. “Pain is an unpleasant sensory and emotional experience. When we focus only on the sensory aspect, we fail to appreciate the suffering component of the pain, which is important to recognize because pain is not what occurs at the periphery.” That means that people who are fearful of pain, depressed, or anxious may experience pain differently, and perhaps more severely, than someone who has pain but isn’t experiencing those other emotions. (1)

Medication combined with therapy and other pain management options (i.e. meditation, TENS, relaxation techniques, YOGA, massage) is usually the most effective approach.

What medication is available for chronic pain management?

  • NSAIDs (non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs), including ibuprofen, naproxen, and aspirin
  • Acetaminophen (Tylenol)
  • Antidepressants, which can improve sleep and alleviate pain
  • Anti-seizure medications, which can be useful in treating pain related to nerve damage or injury
  • Steroids, like dexamethasone and prednisone, to reduce inflammation and pain
  • Opioids (narcotics) and benzodiazepines (1)
  • Medical Marijuana

How can marijuana treat pain?

Medical marijuana is growing in popularity as an alternative drug treatment for chronic pain. Marijuana contains compounds called cannabidiol (CBD) and tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) that interact with cannabinoid receptors in the body. These receptors reduce pain and stimulate the pleasure and reward center in the brain. CBD does not cause a high or have any psychoactive effect. Instead, it interacts with pain receptors in the brain and has an anti-inflammatory effect. Alternatively, THC is a psychoactive drug that produces an elevated state of mind or a “high.” It activates the brain’s reward system and reduces pain levels. (2)

Does marijuana work for chronic pain?

There is insufficient medical evidence and studies to prove the effectiveness of medical marijuana. However, the FDA has approved medications containing synthetic THC cannabinoids for cancer patients. They have also approved medical marijuana for the treatment of two rare and severe forms of epilepsy. Aside from those specific uses, the FDA has not yet approved medical marijuana for pain relief.

Independent research studies show positive results for participants. Marijuana seems especially useful for people suffering from neuropathy (nerve pain), chronic migraines, and cancer treatment. It also appears that using medical marijuana for pain management allowed participants to decrease opioid use significantly.

There is a need for additional research before medical marijuana is a viable option for pain management. It is important to consider the risks associated with using medical marijuana before choosing this option. Schedule a consult at Essentials Medispa & Salon to discuss all your options.

 

Is my testosterone low?

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It seems that testosterone is a favorite topic of conversation these days. TV commercials, lead articles in men’s health magazines and even ads on the radio bombard us with the shocking headlines that men are losing testosterone at alarming rates. According to the latest news and media reports, this is a new and overwhelming situation. Is there really an epidemic happening around testosterone?

What is testosterone and why do men need it?

Testosterone is a vital hormone found in the male bloodstream and body that is responsible for the changes that happen to a boy during puberty – facial and chest hair growth, increased muscle mass, deepening voice, and ultimately all things related to sex drive and sexual organ development. Testosterone is highest in boys during their teen years and decreases as they age. It is normal for men to begin to experience a gradual decline in testosterone as they enter their 30’s ultimately resulting in a significant decrease by the time they reach their 80’s. Declining levels of testosterone is not a new phenomenon and is an unavoidable part of aging.

How can I tell if my testosterone is low?

Men who are wondering if they have decreased production of testosterone generally site the same symptoms which may include: low sex drive, fatigue, and insomnia, hair loss, reduced lean muscle mass, increased body fat, irritability, erectile dysfunction, and depression.  Although these are all symptoms of Low-T (low testosterone), there may be other potentially severe conditions for these symptoms, so it is wise to get blood work done and seek medical assistance in determining the root cause of the symptoms. At Essentials MediSpa & Salon we offer testosterone testing.

Are some men more prone to TD (testosterone deficiency) than others?

TD is more common in men who have diabetes or who are overweight than in men of the similar age within the optimal weight range. In one research study, 30% of obese men had Low-T, compared to only 6.4% of those with normal weight. The same study found diabetes to be a risk factor for TD.  In another study, 24.5% of men with diabetes had Low-T, compared to 12.6% of those without diabetes. (1)

How can I increase my testosterone production?

  1. Increase your exercise and start lifting weights.
  2. Eat a balanced diet high in protein, healthy fat and low in carbs (in other words, lay off the processed foods).
  3. Minimize stress and cortisol spikes.
  4. Make sure you’re getting enough Vitamin D through sunshine or supplements.
  5. Take a high-quality daily multivitamin.
  6. Prioritize restful sleep for a minimum of 8 hours every night.

If you do not see an improvement in your symptoms and your overall quality of life after making these lifestyle changes, then you should consider some pharmaceutical assistance to elevate your testosterone production. (2)

So is Low-T an epidemic? No, it’s a natural part of the aging process which, for some men, has been accelerated due to lifestyle choices and unavoidable stress.  It is not a new reality, but with the help of media, it has become a mainstream topic where it once was only admitted and discussed behind closed doors.

 

 

 

 

  1. What is Low Testosterone?Retrieved from https://www.urologyhealth.org/urologic-conditions/low-testosterone
  2. Mawer, R. (2016, May 20).8 Proven Ways to Increase Testosterone Levels Naturally. Retrieved from https://www.healthline.com/nutrition/8-ways-to-boost-testosterone

How does CBD oil work?

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CBD Oil in Melbourne, FL

Available Now At Essentials MediSpa & Salon

CBD is the abbreviation used for cannabidiol, which is a compound extracted from the cannabis plant. By diluting the extract with an oil, such as coconut or hemp seed, CBD can be used for therapeutic use. Even though CBD is derived from the cannabis plant, it does not contain THC (the psychoactive compound that is found in marijuana). Just as many flower families include several variations, there are different forms of hemp in which these compounds derive. CBD oil can provide therapeutic relief in many forms, with many individuals reporting feeling healthier in areas of sleep, appetite and digestion, mood, immune function, pain, motor control, as well as pleasure and reward centers in the brain. Essentials MediSpa & Salon has the distinguished ability to serve clients on a variety of levels, now adding CBD oils to the list.

So many have asked, “How does CBD oil work?” Well, after several decades of research scientists have discovered that the mammalian body and brain house an endocannabinoid system (ECS) with specific receptors located in the brain, central and peripheral nervous systems, digestive tract, immune system, and endocrine system. This is a unique communication system within the body that affect many functions, including how a person may react, think, and move. It is similar to a lock and key model with two primary receptor points. The first primary cannabinoid receptor is CB1 and the second is CB2, both functioning as lock models. CB1 receptors are abundant in the central nervous system, while CB2 receptors are more often found on immune cells, in the gastrointestinal tract, and in the peripheral nervous system. Endocannabinoids are specialized keys that unlock the possibilities of the ECS, and strive for optimal balance, or homeostasis, within the body and brain.

Interestingly, humans do have the ability to synthesize endocannabinoids, especially through our diet; Omega-3 fatty acids can assist the body with production of endocannabinoids. However, some factors, including diet deficiencies or poor enzyme function, can throw the ECS out of equilibrium. This can possibly cause unpleasant or exacerbated symptoms in daily life. Fortunately, there are multiple delivery methods in which an individual can receive CBD oil products, whereas some supplements are limited and can eliminate a population of individuals based on that fact. Here at Essentials MediSpa & Salon we offer one of the top five brands of CBD products in the country called Elixinol. This Colorado based provider stands out as one of the best in their “field” due to the care that is put into each bottle produced. Overseeing production from seed to consumer, anything that is short of perfection is discarded, maintaining consistency and a highly regarded reputation for CBD products. Elixinol products are located in the Essentials MediSpa & Salon boutique, hosting a variety of delivery methods and serving sizes. Knowledgeable spa consultants are here to assist you with any questions you have, including recommendations for products to suit your individual needs.

So many have asked, “How does CBD oil work?” Well, after several decades of research scientists have discovered that the mammalian body and brain house an endocannabinoid system (ECS) with specific receptors located in the brain, central and peripheral nervous systems, digestive tract, immune system, and endocrine system. This is a unique communication system within the body that affect many functions, including how a person may react, think, and move. It is similar to a lock and key model with two primary receptor points. The first primary cannabinoid receptor is CB1 and the second is CB2, both functioning as lock models. CB1 receptors are abundant in the central nervous system, while CB2 receptors are more often found on immune cells, in the gastrointestinal tract, and in the peripheral nervous system. Endocannabinoids are specialized keys that unlock the possibilities of the ECS, and strive for optimal balance, or homeostasis, within the body and brain.

Interestingly, humans do have the ability to synthesize endocannabinoids, especially through our diet; Omega-3 fatty acids can assist the body with production of endocannabinoids. However, some factors, including diet deficiencies or poor enzyme function, can throw the ECS out of equilibrium. This can possibly cause unpleasant or exacerbated symptoms in daily life. Fortunately, there are multiple delivery methods in which an individual can receive CBD oil products, whereas some supplements are limited and can eliminate a population of individuals based on that fact. Here at Essentials MediSpa & Salon we offer one of the top five brands of CBD products in the country called Elixinol. This Colorado based provider stands out as one of the best in their “field” due to the care that is put into each bottle produced. Overseeing production from seed to consumer, anything that is short of perfection is discarded, maintaining consistency and a highly regarded reputation for CBD products. Elixinol products are located in the Essentials MediSpa & Salon boutique, hosting a variety of delivery methods and serving sizes. Knowledgeable spa consultants are here to assist you with any questions you have, including recommendations for products to suit your individual needs.

So Much More Than Weight Loss

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What About Me?

When did weight loss programs become a thing? Well, if we look at history, I guess we can figure that out for ourselves. For generations people didn’t have weight loss programs because they didn’t need them. Living in the society of today everything is fast-paced, and we want results yesterday. We are stretched thin with our jobs, kids, social media, and all the responsibilities of being an adult. When did we lose sight of ourselves, and how did we fall so low on the totem pole of priorities? You probably make sure you meet deadlines at work, return emails promptly, and get your kids to their extracurricular activities on time, but here’s a question. How often do you show up for yourself? At Essentials MediSpa & Salon you will do that and so much more!

Medical Weight Loss in Melbourne, FL

So Many Options

The reality is that there are plenty of weight loss programs out there that can greatly restrict your calorie intake and, yeah, you’ll drop some weight quickly…but then what happens? Without learning the right way to eat, when to eat, what to eat, and how much to eat your weight loss will more than likely not be sustainable. The truth is that since there are so many different diets out there and multiple weight loss programs, how are you to know with this generation of sensory overload which program is right for you? And let’s be honest, since consuming 500 calories per day is not a sustainable way of living and will more than likely make you feel lethargic and cranky. Consequently, many individuals easily revert to their previous habits thus gaining the weight back. This is so horrible for your internal organs and the elasticity of your skin. Your weight goes on a yo-yo frenzy that leaves you confused, upset, and overweight yet again.

Let’s Talk Sustainable Balance

What’s great about the medical weight loss program that we at Essentials MediSpa & Salon offer is that it is all about you. Our team of professionals want to educate you on the right way to eat and incorporate exercise for long-lasting results. To be fair, there’s probably a piece of pizza, serving of mashed potatoes, and slice of birthday cake somewhere in your future. Ok, so let’s learn the best ways to incorporate these foods instead of saying “sorry, I can’t eat that, I’m on a special diet.” These are some of the most hated string of words that could ever be spoken. Finding balance is a practice just like anything else, and you can find it here at Essentials. The more foods that are eliminated from your diet the more you will crave them, and more than likely binge. Making healthy changes for weight loss is an absolute necessity and adding exercise will make the process that much easier. Especially if your bestie calls you to go out for a cocktail and dinner. Unlike before, you will have the tools in your tool box that give you the freedom to gladly accept and not eliminate all your progress. With the medical weight loss program at Essentials MediSpa & Salon you will learn how to reduce your craving and portions, increase your energy, get weekly hands-on support, and results that LAST!

*Results may vary from person to person

Benefits of IV Therapy

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Chances are, if you think about an IV drip, your first thought is probably not about detoxing or boosting your energy. But that’s exactly what you can get from today’s IV therapy.

Yes, IV drips are still used in the hospital to replenish fluids or provide nutrients and medications to patients, but IV therapy serves a completely different, often unexpected, purpose.

IV therapies like the ones offered at Essentials Medispa & Salon are administered in a private room (when available) while you relax and listen to music. Lay back in comfort with a pillow and cover up with a blanket while the infusion specialist sets you up with customized IV vitamin cocktails and intramuscular nutrient shots to help you reach your goals.

Maximize your health, boost your energy, prevent an illness or reverse a disease you’re battling – these are just a few of the benefits you can receive from an IV therapy session.

How IV Therapy Nourishes Your Body

The traditional way of nourishing your body is by eating healthy foods and taking vitamin supplements. Unfortunately, pulling vitamin and mineral nutrients from the foods we eat is a very complicated process. It involves multiple steps and there are many issues that can get in the way and interrupt the natural flow.

In order for the nutrients in the food to get to your blood so it can be circulated throughout the body, the food must be digested first and absorbed into your system. This requires proper gut health, which many people are simply unable to maintain. Add to that the fact our foods today don’t contain the same amount of nutrients they did in years past, so even eating clean and healthy food is not enough to ensure proper nutrition and nourishment.

That is why IV therapy is a great way to nourish your body and get the nutrients you may be missing. IV vitamin therapy completely bypasses the digestive system and deposits vitamins, minerals, and micronutrients directly into the bloodstream where they can be 100% absorbed. This allows your body to be flooded with critical nutrients in much larger doses than you could take orally and allows for nourishment at the cellular level. This gives you overall improvement in your nutritional status and can provide relief for many symptoms of acute and chronic illnesses.

Who Can Benefit from IV Therapy?

Just about everyone can benefit from the efficient, increased nourishment of IV vitamin therapy. In today’s hectic, fast paced life, almost everyone is suffering from something. It may be a lack of sleep, chronic stress, physical pain, inadequate nutrition or just constantly feeling tired and rundown.

IV therapy addresses all these issues and more. There are therapies designed specifically for nutritional deficiencies, while others work to reduce stress or combat illness or fatigue.

Taking IV therapy can be administered proactively if you’re trying to maintain an optimal level of wellness, with proper nourishment and increased stamina and energy. It can also be used in the treatment of chronic conditions, such as asthma, cancer, depression, drug addiction, lupus, as well as acute conditions, such as headaches, fatigue, colds/flus, allergies, morning sickness… the list goes on.

Additional Benefits of IV Therapy

Comparing IV infusions to other forms of nutritional therapy, IV drips come out on top. They are convenient and fast acting, gentle on the digestive system and more effective than oral solutions.

IV therapies also provide a wide range of overall general health benefits, including:

  • Reduced anxiety and stress
  • Fewer symptoms of allergies, diabetes, erectile dysfunction and PMS
  • Weight loss
  • Improved hydration and skin quality
  • Improved mood, energy, stamina and metabolic functions
  • Shortened recovery time and optimal performance for athletes
  • Strengthened immune system
  • Support for healthier sleep patterns

From hangover relief to anti-aging skin boosts to the world-renowned Myers Cocktail, IV therapy is worth looking into for maximizing your overall wellness. To learn more about how IV therapy may benefit you, contact Essentials Medispa & Salon today.

The Spa – Not Just for Women Anymore

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Man receiving Shiatsu massage from a professional masseur at spa salon

A trip to the spa is one of the best ways to have a great time, but boys, you can get in on the fun, too. The spa, once thought of as a women’s retreat, is starting to see quite the diversified guest list. From women of all ages, teens, couples, and men. Yes, men. Men taking a trip to the spa is the new norm. According to the International Spa Association, 47 percent of spa clientele are men, compared to 31 percent just a decade ago. Nothing to do with men getting in touch with their feminine side or the return of Queer Eye on Netflix, men simply deserve a little pampering too. Below are five med spa services that every man should try.

  1. Manicure

In a professional setting, it’s important to keep a neat appearance. No need for the fancy stuff; a quick manicure provides necessary filing, a flash massage, and a nail buff. Soar through presentations and shake everyone’s hand with confidence. Chronic nail-biter? Keeping well-manicured nails can help you quit that habit.

  1. Pedicure

It isn’t about soaking in bubbles and picking out a colorful polish. Pedicures have a lot of therapeutic qualities that can be particularly beneficial for men. If you work on your feet or are athletic, your feet can be quite sore. They may also develop calluses, skin rashes, athlete’s foot or just hurt. Keeping an eye on them is essential. Regularly taking care of your piggies is a great way to do that.

  1. Facial

A facial is a specialized cleaning and restoring treatment that deep-cleanses and conditions your skin to restore smoothness and suppleness. Facials can help enhance the skin’s moisture and elasticity, giving you a smooth and healthy complexion. Don’t consider it high maintenance, just maintenance. A professional can clean your face much better than you can. Men generally have coarser skin, larger pores and more oil on their faces, leaving them with an extra need for some skin TLC. Getting regular facials can also help you achieve that perfect shave!

  1. Massage Therapy

Nothing relaxes the body as thoroughly as a professional massage. It can help reduce knots, relieve stress, chronic pain and lower blood pressure. If you are lucky enough to not need help with any of these issues, don’t worry, massages still feel amazing. When performed regularly, they can help reduce the chance of developing these problems. There are a wide variety of techniques used; some can even restore circulation of oxygen to alleviate repetitive head and neck pain.

  1. IV Drip Therapy

IV drip therapy isn’t just for celebrities anymore. Anyone can utilize this life-altering experience with just a little drip. It’s a great way to maintain optimum health. The list of health benefits is endless. There are a variety of cocktails that each have their own strengths. IV drips can improve mental clarity, fatigue, immunity and the best hangover cure you will ever try.

Whether you’re a businessman or construction worker, there is something for everyone at a medical spa. So, put your “I’m too manly” mentality behind you, and make a date at the spa. You won’t regret it!

3 THINGS YOU NEED TO START NOW TO BE READY FOR SUMMER!

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Laser Hair Removal

We hate shaving. I think it’s the one thing men and women can agree on. Not only is it time-consuming but a constant battle to get that flawless shave down. From nicks to missed spots, it’s nearly impossible to get the touchable smoothness that everyone is after. It is possible, with LASER HAIR REMOVAL. It’s a must to get that perfect, hair-free, summer skin. It’s an incredibly safe and effective way to rid body hair and get the smooth, hairless skin you dream of. It is an easier process than most think but does take several treatments because hair grows in cycles. Essentials offer packages that include eight treatments. They also offer 0% financing with a monthly payment plan, making this an extremely convenient and affordable process. It’s also imperative when choosing a place to do your laser hair removal that you find out what lasers they use. Many places use outdated or inferior lasers, not Essentials. They use the best in the industry for permanent hair removal; the Essentials also uses the best lasers in the industry, the Candela GentleMax Pro. Get started now on your laser hair removal journey and be beach body ready in no time.

Advanced Metabolic Weight Loss Program

Let’s face it, Beyonce’s cayenne lemon drink doesn’t work for everyone and isn’t a permanent weight loss solution. Take the time and lose weight the healthy way and keep it off. Essentials MediSpa has a licensed team along with a nutritionist and weight loss coach to help guide you on this journey. They’re there for education, evaluation, guidance, and accountability. They help give you the motivation you need, so you feel supported every step of the way while giving you the proper tools and advice you need to succeed. Also under the medical supervision of the physician at Essentials they prescribe and dispense at their facility; appetite suppressants, lipoB+ injections, and B12 injections. Appetite suppressants are clinically proven to reduce weight, it also decreases your appetite and boosts your metabolism, making it easier to make healthier food choices and portion control. LipoB+ injections contain nutrients that contain fat burning compounds, amino acids, vitamin b12 and other vitamins and minerals. It aids in boosting your metabolism, reducing appetite, increasing energy and helping your body to burn fat. B12 is essentials, improving mood, energy, and concentration. It’s also shown to reduce the risk of heart disease and stroke. It can help improve sleep and boost your immune system. Essentials also offers an array of Health & Wellness programs developed for weight-loss, stress-reduction, mental well-being and spiritual wellness. With all this help you can’t help but lose weight and feel great. Get that swimsuit ready!

Laser Skin Resurfacing

When the weather gets nicer, it’s not always happy news. We begin to think about future outfits that consist of shorts, skirts, and dresses. Maybe we lack the skin confidence we once had. Scars, veins and sun damage are all things that plague all of us. It’s okay; laser skin resurfacing is an amazing treatment that can give you and your skin confidence back. They use laser skin resurfacing for acne scars, sun damage or fine lines and wrinkles. They can work on your face, neck and décolletage. They also use lasers to treat spider veins in the face and legs as well as remove annoying stretch marks. Talk to one of the experts at Essentials today to see what works best for what you’re trying to treat.

Emotional Wellbeing

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Maybe you didn’t stick with your New Year’s Resolution or perhaps gave up chocolate for Lent then ate a whole bowl of Hershey Kisses. Okay that may or may not have been me. It’s fine. It’s spring, a time to start anew. Known as the season of rejuvenation and regrowth, however, I always think of it as a time for new beginnings and experiences. The abundance of lush greenery and active wildlife only match the beautiful weather we start to see. If you live in colder environments like me, you can definitely feel the switching of seasons. Sometimes you hear people say they live somewhere because they like “the seasons” and it sounds corny, but it’s true. I could probably do with a few months less of winter, but it’s a pretty amazing thing to see and feel the changes. If it wasn’t for the cold, dreary months, however, my appreciation of spring might not be as high. Once you learn to appreciate what surrounds you, big and small; you become grateful for everything.

As I write this, I have every window open in my house. It’s only 41 degrees out, and I have a hoodie on, but it feels like a perfect day. The sun is beaming through, and I can hear the birds chatting away. I often wonder what they talk about; they’re probably excited that spring is here too. It can be easy to take things for granted, even something as simple as the sun. We all know what it feels like to go a few cloudy days in a row. You aren’t as happy; it’s something about when it’s sunny that makes us smile and feel better. A lot of experts now believe Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD) is linked more to lack of sunlight than the temperature dropping. The sun is proving to make you emotionally happier; this is why it’s so important just to get outside. With a lot of our jobs, we’re indoors with artificial lighting, recycled air and sometimes just dirty conditions. Get some fresh air. Spend your breaks outside. On the weekends get out of the malls and off the couch and in the presence of nature.

I went for a walk through this gorgeous park last weekend, and it was incredible. I was covered in mud and walked into a couple of branches but was worth all of it. I saw natural rock foundations that would rival the work of Picasso. I heard beautiful melodies from water running off enchanting waterfalls, the types of sounds they sell on CD to help you relax. Save your money and experience it firsthand. It’s important to get outside and immerse yourself in nature.

You may think you can’t appreciate the seasonal changes if you live in a warm climate but you’re wrong. No matter where you live there’s so much to admire. Florida’s weather is pretty amazing year-round but, it gets even better in the spring. Not only do different flowers and animals come about but farmers go to work. A lot of their fruit and vegetable crops start mass producing this time of year. They supply delicious food to the whole country. A simple little change in the season enables them to provide nourishment to millions of people every day. Think about how amazing that is.

Spring is a time to encompass all things new. They’re new challenges, new journeys, and new growth. Enjoy it all and reflect on the changes and appreciate them. There is so much to experience out there that we often take for granted. Once you realize this, it’s a humbling feeling. Leave the last few months behind and don’t think about what we messed up on or what we didn’t accomplish. Instead, use this opportunity to get excited. It’s about new beginnings and embracing all the beautiful changes that surround us.