What do birds, bees, flowers, plants and people have in common right now? They’re all feeling the feverish effects of spring’s arrival! Life is abuzz everywhere you turn this month as we draw closer to the spring equinox on March 20. The days are longer, the sun is warmer, and creatures great and small are ready to recharge and renew. Science would suggest that all this positive energy abounds due to hormonal changes resulting from our exposure to increased daylight. But that sounds too clinical to explain the population’s restlessness, giddiness and overall excitement regarding spring’s arrival.

 

Whatever the reason, the change of season ushers in rites and traditions begun anew each March. Young and old alike participate in activities such as picnics in the park, planting gardens and housecleaning. Others, especially high school and college students, make plans for upcoming spring breaks. Many flock to Florida, Mexico and the Bahamas for fun in the sun and classroom freedom. Plus, professional baseball gets into full swing! Spring training camps open in the Western and Southern United States, and both teams and fans alike are eager to enjoy the weeks leading up to opening day of America’s favorite pastime. It seems that having a case of spring fever can do a body good, so get out and enjoy!

Irish Sayings

“If you’re lucky enough to be Irish, then you’re lucky enough.”
“Continual cheerfulness is a sign of wisdom.”

“A good laugh and a long sleep are the two best cures.”

“Better 50 enemies outside the house than one within.”

“Put silk on a goat, and it is still a goat.”

“Don’t give cherries to pigs or advice to fools.”

“A silent mouth is sweet to hear.”

“Questioning is the door of knowledge.”

“All sins cast long shadows.”

Create Your Own Luck With Positive Thinking

Wish you had the “luck of the Irish” when it comes to living a better life? Actually, your state of mind has more influence on your health and success than any amount of luck does. So drop the rabbit’s foot, discard the four-leaf clover and abstain from lucky numbers. Instead, follow the advice of WebMD, which reports that our bodies respond positively (and negatively) to changes in our thoughts, emotions and actions. So reap good fortune with these tips:

Prescription thinking. Optimism might be enough to shake off some colds. The publication “Psychosomatic Medicine” reports that people with a positive attitude are less likely to catch a cold than people who are angry or nervous. In addition, sad and uptight people are more likely to complain of symptoms even when they aren’t sick.

 


Personal training. While diet and exercise are essential for fitness, a positive attitude may be the missing link to a successful workout. When the workout gets tough, a positive outlook keeps you going. Adopt a “can do” attitude, and fi nd a workout buddy to help you start thinking positively.

Give; don’t take. Tip well. Donate to charity. Help someone move. Generosity opens a door to optimism, WebMD suggests. By anchoring your identity in giving, you’ll be less selfabsorbed and more compassionate.