Slowly over the last few weeks, the days have gotten longer. I love this time of year, but I say that about every season. I like that we experience seasons in the UK (although sometimes in Scotland you can have four seasons in one day), but the fact that we can see, feel, and hear the changes as we move from one season to the other is magical to me. Each season is just long enough to enjoy it whilst also looking forward to the next one and embracing the changes ahead. A new season brings with it its mood, smells, sounds and sights, I enjoy experiencing them. As a creative person, Autumn is one of my favourites. I am so inspired by the glorious shades of the landscape as it transitions from summer to autumn, the richness of the colour palette and the textures of the landscape inspire my designs and inform the choices I make as a designer.
Winter is more of a feeling season to me, the opportunity to ‘coorie’ in and enjoy time spent indoors, hibernating and indulging in simple pleasures, hot drinks, blankets, roaring fires and quite often binge-watching a good Netflix series! For me winter is the season to recharge, with shorter days, less daylight and often miserable weather, getting outdoors can be more challenging, and whilst I always aim to get some time outside I do feel the best way to spend winter is cosied up!
So when spring does arrive it is very welcome, there's something truly magical about the start of spring, isn't there? It's as if the world is waking up from its winter slumber, bursting forth with renewed energy and vitality. There is a sense of new beginnings, new life, and fresh starts.
One of the things I adore most about spring is the anticipation it brings; of longer days spent under the open sky, the anticipation of dusting off our hiking boots, lacing up our running shoes, or gearing up for a bike ride through picturesque landscapes. It's a time filled with endless possibilities and boundless excitement.
And the joy of longer evenings, there's something really special about having extra hours of daylight at our disposal. It means we can linger a little longer on the trails, soak up the beauty of nature, and revel in the simple joy of being outdoors. Whether it's a stroll through the woods or a heart-pumping trail run, the extended daylight hours open up a world of possibilities for adventure.
Spring also means you don't have to wait for the weekend to get your outdoor fix. Weekday adventures are also doable, fitting in a midweek adventure on the local trails is such a buzz, it’s a chance to break up the monotony of the workweek, inject a dose of excitement into your routine, and reconnect with nature when you need it most.
And one of my favourite springtime rituals – stopping off at the local pub for a refreshing drink before heading home. There's something incredibly satisfying about sipping on a cold beverage as the sun sets, surrounded by good company and laughter. It's the perfect way to wind down after some outdoor exploration, savouring every last moment of those extended evenings.
So here's to embracing the start of spring. Here's to longer days filled with outdoor adventures, midweek escapes on the local trails, and evenings spent basking in the beauty of nature. May this season inspire us to seek out new experiences, connect with the world around us, and make memories that will last a lifetime.
And if you need some inspiration or motivation, head over to our Journal section on the website where you can take your pick from numerous blogs that our lovely Friends of FINDRA have shared and written, whether it's paddleboarding, endurance running or just spending time outdoors with the family and or dog. There is something for everyone and we know you will be truly encouraged to get out of your winter slumber and embrace the season ahead.
Happy reading
Alex
Sunday Inspiration
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