Tired of the cold? Starting to have cabin fever? Don’t worry, if it’s already March, you will start noticing a change in the weather even before the first official day of spring (that’s around March 19 or 20 in Canada and the rest of the northern hemisphere).

To get you in the springtime mood, here are some of the great things you can look forward to:

1. Warmer weather

   Enough of the minus 20s and 30s°C! Spring ushers in a comfortable temperature ranging from 11.8 °C to 24.8 °C. This is perfect for walking outside, getting some sun and breathing in fresh air.

2. Start of longer days

   Aside from warmer weather, days will also start to get longer. Want to know how this happens? Watch this video from the California Academy of Sciences on how we have different seasons:
    
   
   Why Do We Have Different Seasons? | California Academy of Sciences

   Did you know that sunlight makes you happy? According to researchers, exposure to sunlight increases the brain’s release of serotonin, a hormone associated with boosting mood and helping a person feel calm and focused. Hence, more sunlight contributes to a positive mood.

   Incidentally, Daylight Saving Time (DST) starts again around this time. DST begins on the second Sunday of March (at 2 am, clocks are moved forward an hour). If you’re wondering why we go through DST, read What is Daylight Saving Time? to find out!

3. Greenery, flowers and the animals are back

   Spring showers will soon wash away the snow and mud to reveal green grass, trees and shrubs. Flowers will also start to bloom, adding more colour to the scenery. Did you hear birds chirping this morning? Yes, they’re back! You can also expect the familiar sounds of Canada geese flying by, as well as the squirrels and rabbits scurrying in your backyard.

4. Get ready for spring fashion

   Ready to toss out your winter coat? Definitely! Time to store your bulky clothes and boots for next winter. You can start taking out your t-shirts, light dresses, and even shorts. You may still need to wear a light sweater or jacket though (and maybe a raincoat and boots for the occasional rainy days). But no need for thermal underwear, ski pants or winter boots for sure!

5. More outdoor activities

   Start dusting off your grill and patio furniture because barbecues are back! So are gardening, playing with your dog on the grass, jogging, playing frisbee, and other outdoor sports. While Canadians go camping at any weather, spring and summer are the peak seasons for exploring the great outdoors. You will have more opportunities to experience the beauty of Manitoba’s parks and historic sites. Read Camping tips for beginners to get started.

6. Spring break

   Spring break for the kids is toward the end of March. It’s the perfect time to get started with spring cleaning while you have your helpers around. Read Spring cleaning: Here’s how to sanitize your home for tips on how to deep clean your home.

   Spring break is also a great opportunity for some family bonding time. Celebrate Easter at home, have a small picnic at the park, or take a camping trip to any of the many campgrounds in Manitoba. Exploring these scenic sites will not only make for great family memories but also make you fall in love with your new home even more.

7. Hints of summer

   One of the best things about spring is that summer starts when it ends. Victoria Day (last Monday of May before the 24th) marks the first day of cottage season in Manitoba. This means more fun in the sun, road trips, beachcombing, and many more adventures. Time to get your sunglasses and sunblock ready!

 
Source: What are the benefits of sunlight? Rachel Nail, RN, BSN, CCRN, Healthline.com.