10 Ways to Refresh and Reset this Spring

Visit an accessible trail

Trails are a great way to enjoy sights of nature, mixed in with some light exercise and relaxation. 

Did you know that there are dozens of accessible trails across Canada that can be fully enjoyed by wheelchair users? If you’re looking for a fun activity this spring, either solo or with friends and family, visit a trail and shut your mind off. 

Tune up your mobility device 

If you use a mobility device, spring is a great time to tune it up and ensure you are ready for a summer with minimal breakdowns. Make sure your tires and castors are in good shape if you use a wheelchair, and prepare for surprises in advance by stocking up on extra parts, like tire tubes. Even if your mobility device is in top shape, spring is a great time to give it a good clean and scrub off any residue of snowy, salty, muddy weather. 

Get organized

Do you get in the spirit of organizing when spring comes around? You’re not the only one. Spring is an opportunity to refresh our surroundings and create a clean slate – free of clutter and unnecessary items that add stress to everyday life. This spring, organize your closet and declutter things like old paperwork. More space in your closets and drawers is a great way to begin a stress-free spring. 

Try an outdoor sport

Outdoor sports are an excellent spring activity that help get us moving. Try an outdoor sport this spring – there are plenty of accessible sports organizations to help get you started and find an activity that works for you, from accessible kayaking to basketball. If you’re not big on organized sports, try something lighter, like throwing a frisbee around with a friend at a park. 

After two years of limited social interaction and with most pandemic restrictions lifted, many are ready to take advantage of the warmer weather ahead. From vacations abroad, to visiting national parks and loved ones, Canadians are ready to get out and enjoy their surroundings. 

Go for a swim

There are many benefits to swimming that impact our entire body, and there are dozens of swimming pools across the province that are accessible and equipped to accommodate those with specific mobility limitations. Go for a swim and relax in the water while getting some exercise. 

 Meditate 

After a stressful pandemic that created feelings of isolation for many, tapping into meditation can ease heavy thoughts and help to embrace the present. Best of all, there is no right way to meditate – even if you’re a beginner, you can still reap the benefits of this ancient tradition by trying simple forms of practice like breathing exercises or intently watching a waterfall while out in nature. 

Have an outdoor picnic

After a long, snowy, and cold winter, outdoor picnics are a delightful way to escape the indoors and have a nice meal outside, while indulging in sunlight and fresh air. Whether you work from home or in an office, plan to make time to go outside everyday and soak in some Vitamin D while it is abundant. 

Check out a farmer’s market

Visit a farmer’s market to stock up on some locally grown produce while supporting farmers in Ontario. You’ll be pleasantly surprised at the flavour of farm-grown produce, like strawberries, garlic, and other fruits and vegetables. 

Make a spring/summer meal plan

Spring is an ideal time to refresh our habits and get into more positive routines. If you want to adopt healthier eating habits, try making a spring and summer meal plan, experiment with new recipes and pay attention to your specific goals. 

See some cherry blossoms 

One of the most breathtaking parts of spring is the appearance of bright pink cherry blossoms, with birds chirping nearby and sunlight beating down. Be sure to see some cherry blossoms this year – not only are they beautiful, but they are a great metaphor for resetting after a long period of cold and darkness, and re-emerging as vibrant and colourful.