In case you haven’t noticed, it’s finally starting to get warmer. Even the birds are getting excited for the upcoming spring. You may also have observed a change in how you are feeling. Not to worry, that is normal. Transitions between seasons can be felt in the environment but also in our bodies.

In Chinese Medicine, the springtime is a season of new beginnings and energy. Nature is waking up from the long winter. The change in energy can be experienced in our bodies as restlessness, irritability or motivation. Each person feels spring’s influence differently. Some folks really excel during this time while others may feel more overwhelmed.

The good news is that you are not alone. The spring is a time where we are moving from a period of dormancy and hibernation to activity and interaction within the world. Think of yourself and fellow humans as grumpy bears. We are all being stirred to life with the hope of warm weather and sun.

Here are some tips to navigate the transition:

1. Make sure to eat well during this time. It is important to eat well all the time, but now, be a little more mindful. Your body is always a little more sensitive in the midst of a seasonal change. Keep an eye out for what you may be craving. This season is associated with sour tastes so you may find yourself going for that lemonade a little more than you normally would. As much as this pains me to say, Cadbury Eggs and Peeps are not recommended foods.

2. STRETCH. For some of us, springtime is when we rejoin the moving world. We are exercising more or picking up running after a winter of professional couch potato-ing. It is important to stretch out your muscles during this reentry into any activity. You may notice your shoulders are a little tighter or your muscles are feeling tense. Be sure to give yourself time to warm up before trying to conquer that jog or workout routine. Easing back will help prevent any unnecessary injuries.

3. Drink water. It will give more spring to your step.

4. Try meditating or qigong to keep your stress and irritability under wraps. It is important to slow down and keep in mind that change is uncomfortable, even if it is just seasonal. Next time you are annoyed by the wait in line, take a deep breath and try to back away from Anger City, USA.

5. Acupuncture is a useful tool in easing the many symptoms that people identify during this change. Balance is important in all aspects of your life. Acupuncture stimulates points to bring your body into that balance and give you a sense of relaxation and relief.

6. Since everyone responds differently to change, be kind to one another. Especially living in cities, it may feel like there is little room for patience when we all are on top of one another. Offering your seat to someone who looks like they need a rest, stopping for a pedestrian or letting a car into traffic are all ways you can pass on the spirit of new beginnings.