Spring symbolizes new beginnings and rebirth. The days become longer, temperatures slowly warm-up, and flowers sprout up all around us. Due to these reasons – and many more – that spring is the best time of year to spend time outside. Whether going on a walk in the park, planting new flowers and herbs in my garden, sitting on my porch, or just exploring Mother Nature, I am outside all the time. There’s something about this time of year that soothes my soul and leaves me feeling free. These are common feelings that spring invokes in people, so much so that cultures worldwide celebrate this season by observing the spring equinox.

What is the Spring Equinox?

Also known as the vernal equinox, this phenomenon is when the sun will cross directly over the Earth’s equator. Due to the sun being positioned above the equator, day and night are about equal length worldwide, hence equinox meaning “equal night.” Throughout history to the present day, people celebrate this time of new beginnings, the spring season.

Spring Symbolism in Religion & Culture

In Greek mythology, the goddess Persephone returned to her mother, Demeter, after spending half a year in the Underworld, and everything bloomed again. Ancient Rome celebrated the spring equinox by offering sacrifice to commemorate the death and rebirth of the fertility god Attis. In Japan, millions of people travel to parks and gardens to view the stunning beauty of cherry blossoms. People of the Christian faith celebrate Easter, when Jesus Christ and his triumph over physical death, and those of Jewish faith commemorate Passover when they were freed from slavery in Egypt.

Benefits of Going Outside

It turns out there is a good reason for the continual celebration of spring. Warmer temperatures mean more time to spend outside. No matter what you do, being outside is incredibly beneficial to all aspects of your health. Studies show that spending time outdoors in fantastic weather contributed to better memory and moods. Going on a walk slows your heart rate down and reduces stress. Soaking up some vitamin D provides plenty of energy to your body. No matter what you decide to do, go out there and celebrate the season of life and renewal.