As we are at the 3 year mark since Covid changed all of our lives, I’ve recently been finding myself going back to view my archived Instagram photos from March & April 2020. It’s a bit of a weird time-traveling experiment… there was lots of sourdough bread making and lots of time outdoors. I was lucky enough to be living in the Catskills for this timeframe, and spent a lot of time outside. I’m reminded of how the emergence of spring that year felt so truly healing. The world had slowed down (stopped?) and I would walk my dog each day, noticing the tiny changes in the environment around me. When everything else felt stuck or completely out of my control… the buds slowly (and predictably) opened up on the trees and bushes, the flowers pushed up out of the ground, and the days got longer.
I have witnessed firsthand the powerful impact that the changing seasons can have on our mental health and wellbeing. And as we transition this year from winter to spring, I think it's an especially important time to reflect on the concept of new beginnings.
Spring is a time of renewal and growth, as the earth awakens from its winter slumber and begins to bloom once again. For many of us, this season represents a fresh start, a chance to shed the old and embrace the new. And while the idea of new beginnings can be exciting, it can also be daunting, especially if we are dealing with challenges, stresses or struggles in our lives (and who isn’t).
One way to approach the idea of new beginnings is to embrace the concept of growth mindset. This means acknowledging that change is inevitable and that we have the power to shape our own lives. By focusing on our strengths and our ability to learn and adapt, we can approach new challenges with a sense of resilience and optimism.
What do you want to focus on and grow in your garden this year?
And I’m not just talking about the garden you might be planting outside, but also the theoretical garden of your life.
Of course, new beginnings can also be accompanied by feelings of fear and uncertainty. It's natural to feel nervous about stepping into the unknown or trying something new. As a therapist, I often remind my clients that growth and change require courage and vulnerability. But with the right support and mindset, we can navigate these challenges and emerge stronger on the other side.
So as we welcome the arrival of spring and the promise of new beginnings, I encourage you to embrace the season of growth and renewal. Take time to reflect on what you want to let go of and what you want to cultivate in your life- and your garden. And remember that change is not always easy, but it is always possible.