(BPT) - There's something so invigorating and refreshing about springtime. The new season can bring out your best, motivating you to implement changes to your daily routine that will put a smile on your face, boost your energy levels and make many of your ordinary tasks seem easier.
If you're looking for new ideas for this spring's refresh, check out these tips from Colette Heimowitz, vice president of Nutrition and Education at Simply Good Foods Company.
Take advantage of the longer days and warmer weather by grilling your steaks, poultry, fish, and veggies outdoors! An impromptu barbecue may be just what you need to make weeknight meals special, even if it's just you and your family enjoying it. As you let go of heavier comfort food from the colder months, try lightening up your meals with fresh salads and healthful soups.
Feeling stuck and need some inspiration to help keep your weekly meal plans exciting? Atkins has an array of low-carb recipes to help inspire your spring menus.
Put a spring in your snacks.
It's time to upgrade your pantry and add a few new snacking options. The new Atkins Crunchy Protein Cookies are the perfect bite-sized, portable treats to crush your sweet tooth, any day, anytime. With 8 grams of protein and less than 1 gram of sugar, these are the perfect treats to bring with you on-the-go, or to enjoy at home on a rainy spring day.
While you're at it, consider revamping your refrigerator options with tasty, in-season fruits and veggies. Check out your local farmers market to find the fresh options at their peak. You can elevate your fresh produce in a variety of ways: dip veggies in ranch dressing or hummus, sprinkle berries on cottage cheese, or layer bell pepper slices with your favorite cheese and a few olives.
Get moving outside. Or anywhere.
Now that the weather is getting warmer and daylight is stretching out longer, it's time to get out and get moving again. If you're new to exercise or haven't been active in a while, start slowly. Take the dog for a walk, hit the park with your kids, skip the elevator in favor of the stairs or park a little farther from your destination.
Find an exercise routine that excites and inspires you. Try out a new workout class, start a walking club with friends or even try a new sport like tennis or pickleball.
Spring cleaning may sound boring, but the results are well worth it as it'll boost your mood and energy. Having a clean space can be just as important for leading a healthy lifestyle as eating right or getting some exercise. Start small and choose one drawer, one closet, or one room at a time. Put on your favorite tunes or podcast and get to work!
When you're done cleaning, you can let in a little fresh air, light some spring-scented candles and kick off the season in your newly clean and cozy home.
You can find more healthy lifestyle tips, recipes and low-carb products for your spring refresh at Atkins.com.
