Welcome Spring with Fresh Intentions
Hello Brave Community!
Can you believe it’s daylight saving time again?! Yeppers, it’s true. This Sunday (3/9) we “spring ahead” by 1 hour and the number of daylight hours we get to experience increases. And just like that, we are exiting out of winter and sliding into spring.
As the seasons shift, so do we. The transition from winter to spring is typically very welcomed by many, but it can bring both uplifting and challenging experiences. Check out the bullet points below for a list of some ways the seasonal shift from winter to spring affects us humans.
Psychological Effects
Increased Energy, Mental Clarity & Motivation - As daylight increases, so does serotonin, often leading to improved mood and motivation. The rising temperatures and longer daylight hours can lift brain fog and inspire new projects.
Shift in Mindset - Moving from the introspective energy of winter to the outward-facing energy of spring can bring a desire for growth, exploration, and social engagement.
Restlessness, Anxiety & Impatience - After months of slower energy, the sudden shift can bring feelings of urgency and frustration. The transition can be unsettling, particularly for those sensitive to change, as the stillness of winter gives way to movement.
Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD) Relief - More sunlight often boosts serotonin, helping to alleviate symptoms of winter depression.
Spring Cleaning Impulse - The psychological need to declutter both physical spaces and mental/emotional baggage is heightened.
Physical Effects
Changes in Sleep Patterns - More daylight can disrupt sleep schedules; adjusting your evening routine can help.
Increased Energy Levels - For some people, exposure to more sunlight can help regulate circadian rhythms, improving sleep and overall vitality.
Seasonal Allergies & Detoxification - The body naturally shits into detox mode, which can manifest as increased elimination (sweating, digestion, even mild skin breakouts). Spring allergies may also arise due to pollen and environmental changes.
Fluctuating Appetite & Cravings - As your metabolism adjusts, warmer weather often shifts food preferences from heavy, warming foods to fresh, lighter meals like greens and fruits; listen to what your body needs.
Emotional Effects
Mood Swings/Emotional Ups & Downs - Spring can evoke a mix of renewal and overwhelm, especially if there’s pressure to “wake up” and be productive.
Hope & Excitement - The promise of new beginnings can bring feelings of optimism and inspiration.
Heightened Sensitivity - Just as nature awakens, emotions can feel raw and intensified, especially old wounds or unresolved grief from winter's introspection.
Increased Social Desire - Many experience a pull toward community, relationships, and outdoor activities.
Spiritual Effects
Awakening & Rebirth - Many cultures and spiritual traditions see spring as a time of renewal, symbolizing growth, and fresh starts.
Deeper Connection to Nature - The return of greenery, flowers, and wildlife can rekindle awe, gratitude, and mindfulness.
Inspiration & Creativity - Spring's beauty often sparks artistic expression, new ideas, and a desire to create.
Purging & Letting Go - Just as nature sheds the old to make way for the new, there's a natural urge to release outdated beliefs, habits, or emotional weight.
Increased Desire for Movement - This time of year people often feel more drawn toward getting outside, moving their bodies, yoga, walking, gardening, etc.
What shifts have you already been noticing within yourself?
What ones have yet to arrive?
Which shifts do you desire for yourself?
If you are someone who...
doesn't like setting New Year's resolutions
goals just don't make sense to set in January during the middle of winter
is noticing increased energy and motivation now that spring is here
...check out the next session for a short but powerful intention setting journal ritual!
A Simple Spring Intention-Setting Practice
While January is often seen as the time for resolutions, spring – nature’s season of renewal – may actually be a more natural and sustainable time to set new intentions for the year ahead. With longer days, increased sunlight, improved energy, and a sense of possibility, this is a great time to reflect on what you truly want to cultivate in your life and
Rather than forcing strict goals, try this gentler approach. Start by journaling:
Reflect - What feels most alive in you right now? What do you feel drawn to?
Refine - What’s one small shift that could support growth this season?
Root - What daily practice or ritual can ground this intention in your life?
Feel free to set 1 intention using these reflect, refine and root journal prompts, or, set several different intentions pertaining to different areas of your life.
Looking for an embodiment practice to help you feel grounded amidst the mania of spring? We got you!
We are rolling out our new bimonthly newsletters where we will cover a holistic mental health topic in the first one and offer a link to one of our Insight Timer guided meditations (embodiment practices) in the second.
So, stay tuned! Our second newsletter with a spring-themed embodiment practice will be coming to you at the end of March!
Therapist Highlight: Sophia Tornabene
Meet the marvelous Sophia Tornabene.
Sophia is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker originally from Brooklyn, New York who is currently based in Colorado.
Sophia believes that our stories do not define us, but they are a part of us. In many ways she has come to realize that when people feel seen, heard, and valued they are able to fully embrace themselves and show up authentically in all aspects of their lives.
Her therapeutic philosophy is rooted in understanding how your intersecting identities impact the way you think and how you navigate through life and its challenges.
Sophia believes having a warm, supportive, and accepting therapeutic space allows for deeper self-connection, curiosity, and exploration and therefore is essential to healing and growth. Sophia sees you as the expert on your experiences, and it is her role is to meet you where you are and tailor her approach to meet your needs.
Sophia uses a variety of therapy modalities including...
EMDR
Parts Work
Attachment theory
Sophia specializes in working with...
Folks navigating relationships (dating, friendships, familial)
Young adults & college students
People wanting to develop their confidence
People wanting to overcome people pleasing
Life Transitions
Attachment wounds
Emotional connection and understanding
Anxiety
Sophia as a person↓
Personality: Heartfelt, wise, down-to-earth & passionate
Activities: Pottery, skiing, hiking, and exploring new cities & restaurants
Travels: Iceland, France, Italy, Nicaragua, & Spain. Visiting Thailand and Tokyo are currently at the top of her bucket list!
Pets: Two adorable kitties named Zucchini and Zeppole
Quotes: “We seek connection, predictability, and dependability to root us firmly in place. But we also have a need for change, for the unexpected, for transcendence.” - Esther Perel