Happy first day of spring! Today is March equinox, or vernal equinox. It marks the first day of spring in the Northern Hemisphere. It is the day when the Northern and Southern Hemispheres receive roughly equal amounts of sunlight.
Spring is a time when new life begins to emerge after a time of dormancy and rest during winter. You’ve likely noticed the amount of sunlight increasing since winter solstice in December. It begins slowly, then speeds up noticeably in early February, and will continue to increase until summer solstice in June. Trees are beginning to bud and early spring bulbs are poking through and in some places blooming. Here in the Okanagan, buttercups have bloomed, a sure sign of spring. Birds are returning and we can hear the call of their song. The sun feels warmer on our skin.
This can feel like an optimistic time as life stirs and colour begins to pop. Many cultural and faith traditions celebrate the newness and hope that we experience at this time. And many of us get back to spending time outside – in the garden, walking, hiking, sitting in the sun.
An invitation
Being curious about the natural rhythms of nature and noticing parallels to your own life can be a way of discovering new things about nature, yourself, and others. It can also bring you into deeper connection with the natural world. When you are out walking or sitting in nature, for some that might be at their sit spot, take some time to connect to your senses and be curious about what draws you.
Notice colours that draw your attention or new life emerging. It might be the colour of a red bud, or yellow flower. How is the light changing as the sun’s position moves?
Close your eyes and notice the sounds that you hear. Is that a new bird calling?
Notice what you can smell as spring arrives.
Notice how the ground feels as it begins to warm up?
Allow yourself to enjoy these sights, sounds, scents and touch.
Deeper reflection: You may also want to reflect and perhaps journal about how what you are seeing mirrors what’s happening your life. After a time of winter and dormancy, what new idea or calling is beginning to emerge in your life? Where are you being drawn? What can you leave behind to make room for this newness? Where are you seeing hope in your life.
Okanagan Forest Therapy 