By OSAMU SAKAMOTO
Columnist
To our readers, as of the weather getting warmer, the first seasonal change in 2016 has come (a crowd enthusiastically goes wild)!
I remember last semester, jokingly but half-hopingly saying, “winter is coming” because that is my favorite season. Now as of Sunday, it is officially time to retract that statement and instead say, “spring has arrived, prepare for fun outdoor activities!”
Now I am aware that a phrase such as “have fun” in a season like today may contain a hidden meaning of sarcasm to some of us, and I would not wish to become Mr. Sarcasm in public at all.
The reason that it might contain sarcasm is because some of us have to get bombarded by airborne pollen from the newly sprouting plants, which in no way, shape or form, is fun.
Along with the people affected by pollen, there are also individuals who tend to get sick from the seasonal shift. Although I do not have pollen allergies, I always become sick in this time of year, especially in the transitional period of winter and spring.
Despite those negative side effects, that does not necessarily mean that we should give up on things that are enjoyable.
So how can we make the best out of in the days of “sickening.” First things first, it is often a wise idea to maintain our mental and/or physical health; Mental illness, for instance depression, is known to be associated with the weakened immune system, and poor physical health welcomes illness or infection into the body. Both types of illnesses can be healed by adequate exercise and eating healthy, which boost our immune system.
In order to avoid catching cold or any disease, let’s make sure to stay warm and most importantly wash hands and gargle before meal and after coming back from outside because the change in temperature may already have been a burden to our bodies.
For those of you who have been fighting against pollen over the years, I have faith in you. Some tips that I heard of to ease allergy reactions are avoid going out on a windy day, stay clean and maintain pollen-free environments by vacuuming, wiping, washing, etc., try to go out at a time of pollen inactivity, and wear protective glasses/sunglasses. Or you might as well wear a full-face motorcycle helmet wherever to go. It sounds like a sharp and “solid” idea.
As outside weather becoming gorgeous, we do not want to miss a great time to start working on the body for coming summer (a New Year’s resolution is not too late yet!). In addition to our traditional option to go to a gym, spring creates a comfortable atmosphere to go on a walk or jog outside or for the adventurous ones out there, possibly even hiking.
The arrival of spring also and ultimately indicates more activities which often involve barbecuing, camping, and fishing. If you are in romantic relationship with somebody and are looking for a unique kind of date, a picnic is the way to keep it classy and simple. And yes, you’re welcome.
Also when scheduling an outdoor activity, you might want to look at the weather forecast for possible incoming storms. It is always good to be alert for tornadoes. Speaking to that, storm chasing is another thrilling activity available in spring.
Anyways, spring is all about being outdoors and having a fun time. So be safe everyone!