When Nature Awakens and Miracles Begin to Unfold

By Anni Dahms

Founder of  the retail chain ANNI’s VITAL SHOP.
Nurse- & Health specialist,  Biopath and Nutritional Adviser.

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It is the willingness to believe that life is a miracle that paves the way for miracles to happen.
(The Pilgrimage – Paulo Coelho)

Spring is my favorite time of the year. Everywhere, life is bursting forth. As I look around in the first month of spring, I see an ocean of miracles unfolding before me. I am fortunate to live in a place where nature is right outside my door. Despite lingering cold temperatures, depending on where you live, and significant temperature differences between day and night, the arrival of spring is unmistakable, and winter must loosen its grip. Life emerges everywhere – plants, trees, flowers, and bushes begin to grow and bloom. Remarkably, both animals and plants instinctively sense that spring has arrived. Animals become more active; I hear cats crying out to attract mates, lemon butterflies begin to flutter through the air, the blackbird sings, and birds of various species start gathering materials for their nests.

How we humans experience spring can vary significantly. Personally, I am positively influenced by the increasing daylight. I feel a heightened sense of joy, energy, and cheerfulness, while others may experience depression and sadness. Spring fatigue is thought to last about two weeks, beginning in mid-March.

To prevent seasonal melancholy, it helps to eat fresh, nutritious food, stay hydrated, and supplement with high-quality vitamins and minerals. Many people, in my opinion, drink far too little water. Insufficient fluid intake can lead to fatigue because the body becomes slightly dehydrated. I also often observe that many people skip breakfast, either due to lack of time or appetite. However, a good breakfast is crucial for providing the body with energy for metabolism. The brain depends on glucose as fuel, making it essential to choose slow-digesting carbohydrates such as whole grain bread, oatmeal, and bananas. A healthy breakfast should also include protein and good fats, such as nuts, eggs, and yogurt.

Avoid consuming excessive amounts of fat, salt, and sugar, and be mindful not to overeat. Large meals drain your energy.

If you love your morning coffee, try limiting yourself to one cup instead of drinking multiple cups just to wake up. The effects of coffee wear off quickly, leading to a vicious cycle where you need more and more, which is ultimately unhealthy.

As spring progresses, the sun rises higher in the sky and becomes much stronger. The pleasant mild spring sun soon turns into a powerful force, prompting many to think about protecting their skin from sunburn.

Spring Nutrition Advice

Eat high-quality food. It is essential to minimize the consumption of processed foods. Avoid candy, chips, pre-made cookies, cakes, energy bars, and low-quality beverages as much as possible. Many of these products have long shelf lives, are calorie-dense, and contain excessive amounts of added sugar, unhealthy fats, and artificial ingredients.

If you need a quick snack, opt for fresh berries, fruit, almonds, and nuts instead. Personally, I often choose high-quality dark chocolate, which I always keep at home—85%, 99%, or even 100%. It tastes wonderful, provides good energy, and promotes satiety.

March is considered the first month of spring and was originally called Thor’s Month in old Danish. Many delicious fresh ingredients become available in early spring. Enjoy them at their peak flavor and let your daily diet primarily consist of organic, fresh foods such as eggs, meat, nuts, almonds, whole grains, avocados, and vegetables.

I especially love vibrant beets, which are excellent for the body and widely used for iron deficiency due to their high iron content. Another favorite is leeks, which enhance many dishes with their fantastic flavor. Savoy cabbage, with its striking green color, is both decorative and nutritious in salads. Other great vegetables include onions, tomatoes, cucumbers, and radishes.

Among the many delicious fruits, don’t forget the health-boosting aronia berries, rich in antioxidants. Juicy plums and apples also make their return. Fresh lemon juice, with its delightful acidity, is often overlooked, yet it can enhance various dishes and add a burst of freshness.

Use high-quality fats such as olive oil, organic butter, cream, and oat milk/cream.

If you enjoy seafood but, like me, are wary of fish bones—having had two incidents where they lodged in my throat, requiring hospital visits—there are boneless options like squid and cod roe.

Lamb is traditionally associated with spring and is often found on my Easter table. Ensure you choose lamb meat without a woolly taste. If lamb is unavailable, chicken serves as a fantastic alternative for preparing a variety of exciting dishes.

Spring Supplements

The changing weather and increased daylight can affect energy levels and the immune system. A well-chosen supplement of vitamins and minerals can support the body during this transition period. Choose the supplements that best suit your needs.

Omnimin
A comprehensive multivitamin containing essential vitamins and minerals. Available for both children and adults, with or without iron.

B Vitamins
Water-soluble vitamins that help reduce fatigue, support the nervous system, and enhance mood. A deficiency in B12, for instance, can impair memory, contribute to depression, and negatively affect vision. Should be taken in the morning.

Spirulina & Chlorella
Nutrient-rich algae that strengthen the immune system, boost energy, and improve digestion. Chlorella has a cleansing effect on blood vessels and a higher fatty acid content than Spirulina. Many combine both for enhanced benefits.

Zinc
A crucial trace mineral involved in over 200 enzymes in the body. Zinc is essential for the immune system and metabolism of carbohydrates, proteins, and fats. It is primarily found in meat and shellfish, while plant-based foods contain lower amounts.

Selenium
Protects against heavy metals and supports immune function. A selenium deficiency can lead to fatigue, hair loss, difficulty concentrating, anxiety, and nervousness.

Q10 & Selenium
Research shows that supplementing with Q10 and selenium together reduces inflammation, improves heart function, and enhances overall quality of life. Q10 is vital for normal energy production in the body.

Vitamin D
Essential for boosting the immune system. Vitamin D activates T-cells, which play a crucial role in fighting viruses and bacteria. Without sufficient vitamin D, T-cells cannot function properly.

Goji Berries
Though not a supplement, they are often mentioned in health discussions. Goji berries are rich in vitamin C, iron, vitamin A, zinc, and antioxidants. They are believed to support the immune system, stabilize blood sugar, and may even aid weight loss. Used in traditional Chinese medicine for centuries.

 

Embrace Spring as the Sun Smiles Upon You

In March, the days grow noticeably longer. While the temperatures can still be cold, warmer days become more frequent.

For me, spring is the best time of the year. I generally feel more energized and happy. The days lengthen, and the temperatures rise without becoming too hot.

On my morning walks with my dog, I delight in seeing how colorful nature becomes during this season. Trees and bushes turn green, and spring flowers bloom in all their vibrant hues.

Prioritize a Daily Walk in Spring. Make time for a daily walk this season. If you have the opportunity to walk in the forest, I highly recommend it. Walking in nature strengthens your health and contributes to a better quality of life.

The Benefits of Daily Walks in Nature

Prioritize time for a daily walk. If you can, take a stroll through the forest—it is highly recommended. Walking in nature strengthens health and enhances quality of life. A daily walk offers numerous benefits:

• Regulates blood sugar, blood pressure, and cholesterol
• Boosts mood and overall well-being
• Supports brain function, reduces stress and anxiety, and improves memory.
• Enhances the ability to manage daily tasks.

Research shows that people who take solitary walks in nature are less prone to stress and depression—our internal batteries recharge. To experience these benefits, spending at least half an hour per week in nature is essential.

Once you’ve felt the positive effects of fresh air and trees, a daily walk can easily become a habit—no matter the weather. As the saying goes:

“There is no such thing as bad weather, only inappropriate clothing.”