Why Spring is the perfect time to set new intentions

There’s something about Spring that stirs us awake. Longer days, warmer weather, busy insects, the buds on the trees, the return of colour to the world around us. Spring brings a little more energy, a little more willingness to try something new.

For me, Spring has always felt like a much better time to be setting intentions than the New Year. I mainly want to hide in January and eat comfort food under my blanket. Not be forcing myself to set goals and aspirations I have no motivation to move towards!

Winter is the perfect time to reflect, it pulls us inwards. Whilst Spring feels easier to envision change and transformation. A re-awakening. And it’s not just a feeling - the longer days and brighter sun boost serotonin in our bodies and helps lift mood and focus. It feels like a bridge between the reflections and energy conserving of Winter and the time to take action. When ideas that have been quietly forming begin to take shape.

It’s not about pressure, or setting unachievable goals. It’s not about willpower. For me, Spring is about re-alignment. More daylight helps us to regulate sleep, giving us more energy to think, explore, and plan. The warmer weather encourages us to get outside and get some fresh air, which can boost motivation and physical health. And there’s something about the cycle and renewal of nature in Spring that makes it feel OK to let some things go - habits and commitments that we no longer need.

It’s about growing, exploring, hopefulness and feeling. No “shoulds” allowed here! No self-criticism. Just a renewed energy, a waking up alongside the world waking up around us. It really is a beautiful season, and one of the most naturally supportive moments of the year to imagine “what next?”.

Here’s some coaching questions that might help you reflect at this time of year about what you want to plan or encourage yourself to do:

What could you release and let go of this Spring?

What brings you energy or alignment?

Where in your life could you make more time for the things that bring you energy or joy?

Maybe envisage taking a walk in field full of Spring flowers with the birds singing and the sun shining high. You have a backpack on. What’s weighing you down? What’s in that pack that you could take out? What would make it lighter to carry?

Happy Springtime everyone!

“Keep your face to the sun and let the shadows fall away”