The Gentle Defrost

Sparks and Seeds of Joy This Spring

Welcome to April, and hello, Spring!

Ok, so I did get a very little taste of true winter and snow when I traveled home for Lunar New Year in February. But knowing that my family in the US really suffered through the freezing cold this past season, I’m almost a little timid to admit that I still need to "defrost" as we head into spring here in Taipei.

To me, thawing out isn't just about the physical temperature. It is about shaking off the stiff, slower, stagnant energy of winter.

This is exactly why our theme for this month is Spring into Joy.

In spring, there are so many little moments that can become tiny sparks of joy to help us thaw out. I somehow find it so much easier to experience and spot these sparks right now, and to use them to build momentum forward.

This past Monday morning, I felt that first joyful seedling of spring. The sun was shining through the curtains, beckoning me out of bed. It was a gentle body alarm clock awakening me (way better than the harsh, abrupt phone beep! beep! beep!), and I was overcome with a calm, familiar sense that the spring thaw had begun.

I found myself carrying this fresh, invigorated feeling through the day. Just like shedding off the heavy sweaters and thick clothing that cushion our bodies (and maybe muffle our senses?), it seemed like my body was waking up and talking to me with less interference.

It sent clear messages: "I'm thirsty, fill up your water bottle." "I want something crunchy and fresh. Choose the apple."

Instead of grabbing an Uber between classes, I chose to walk just to feel the warm breeze on my skin, knowing how short lived the Taipei spring truly is. Along the way, I noticed a roadside truck selling trays full of bright, vibrant red strawberries. I snatched them right up and took them home to wash and freeze for smoothies.

It reminded me that while we need to make an effort for our health all year round, spring has a unique magic. Small actions build on each other with a sense of ease that is unique to this season.

We don't have to force massive lifestyle changes or pressure ourselves into attaining an image of happy perfection and flawless wellbeing. Sometimes, the momentum of making the wellness choices we want starts with just catching one of those tiny, instantaneous moments of joy. A small ray of light soaked up through the window, a gentle breeze savored, a fresh fruit to be enjoyed, an invitation to move… the smallest seed can grow into habits in the fertile grounds of spring.

So this week, what might help you "thaw out" or defrost the rest of winter?

Sparks and seeds of joy come in all shapes and sizes. Maybe it is a blossoming flower, a juicy seasonal fruit, or joining our on-demand Zumba classes at home to shake off the stiffness.

If it brings you to the dance floor, I am here to help you Spring into Joy!

Keep moving!

xx,

Katie