Happy Groundhog Day! 5 Health Benefits of Early Spring

Healthy SELF, SELF Magazine

By Jenny Everett,SELF magazine

Good news today! Punxsutawney Phil didn't see his shadow, which means an early spring is heading our way. Right?

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Well, not so fast. The groundhog is no Al Roker, and the entire idea that he can forecast the weather is ridiculous. Nonetheless, the little guy did get us pumped up for the warmer weather -- the first day of spring is less than two months away!
Whether you buy the groundhog's prediction or not, here are five reason why springtime is good for your health:

You burn more caloriesIn springtime, it's warming up, but the oppressive humidity of summer hasn't kicked in. For this reason, people are very motivated to start a workout program in the spring, according to exercise physiologist Amy Dixon, group fitness manager for Equinox in Santa Monica, Calif.

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You eat better
When you feel that first hint of spring weather, your mind goes to one place: bathing suit season. For this reason, you're more likely to adopt -- and stick to -- a healthy, low-cal diet. Thankfully, this coincides with the availability of tons of amazing seasonal produce. Cover half of your plate with fresh fruits and veggies at every meal -- as per the new U.S. Dietary Guidelines -- and you'll be well on your way to dropping a few pounds.

You feel less stressed
Several studies have linked access to green spaces to reduced stress. In 2007, English researchers compared the mental health benefits of taking a 30-minute indoor jaunt with a walk in the park. Seventy-one percent of the subjects who took it outside reported feeling more chilled out, while 72 percent of those who stayed indoors said they felt even more stressed.

You may be more fertile
Here's some good news if you want to conceive: Warm weather may increase your chances of getting pregnant. A Brazilian study released this fall found that in vitro fertilization (IVF) rates were highest during the springtime -- 73.5 percent versus 67.9 percent. Head researcher Daniela Braga says this may be a result of the changing light patterns affecting neurons in the brain that control the egg production and release.

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You'll breathe easier
According to the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), we spend about 90 percent of our time indoors, where pollutants are higher than those outdoors. Poor air quality has been linked to everything from asthma to migraines to reduced ability to concentrate. So, when the weather (and the boss) permits, spend your lunch hour outdoors! Just don't forget to pop Loratadine (Claritin, et al.) if you have springtime allergies.

Feeling bummed out by the still-nasty weather? Check out our tips for boosting your winter mood.

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Photo Credit: Condé Nast Digital Studio