Berlin is a tricky city to live in, weather-wise. Generally speaking, the winters are extra long, the summers are scattered with thunderstorms, and those moderate in-between seasons hardly have time to announce their presence before they’re gone.
This year, however, we have been lucky. Whereas last winter had snow from November until April, this year we had about two weeks of bad weather in January, and that’s it. Normally, Berliners would be holding their breath at a statement like that, but it really is true: the little German Murmeltier definitely did not see a shadow, and spring has arrived.
Along with the double-digit weather, I have experienced a boost of motivation; the wintertime just isn’t good at inspiring me to do much of anything. So along with sacrificing worry for Lent, I decided to add a few positive things to my life:
Spending 30-60 minutes outside each day
This actually began as a “homework” assignment from M., who strongly urged me to get more sunshine. It’s no secret to those close to me that I battle with chronic fatigue and hypersomnia, so getting outside is important in helping my rhythm. And in addition to just being outside, I’m spending most of it walking around and exploring new side-streets and checking out different cafes.
Focus T25
I have started a variety of fitness programs, but gotten bored after a month or so and stopped. I heard good things about T25 though, so I started it this week. So far, so good. I am definitely not getting bored, and I really like the format of the workout. I also have a hard time with some of it because it’s high impact on the feet (where I have some problems), but have been doing modifications. And I figure that so long as I am moving, it’s probably a good thing.
Taking B12
As a vegan, I don’t consume animal products, which also happen to be the only foods that naturally contain B12. I have never taken supplements before (I know some vegans who do religiously, while others don’t), but decided that it couldn’t hurt to take them. Maybe I will notice a change in my energy, maybe not, but getting more than my daily recommendation in a vitamin is not a bad thing at all.
In addition to these things, I planted my first herb garden since living in Berlin. It’s difficult without a balcony (or, you know, a proper yard of our own), but already my dill, cress, basil, and parsley have sprouted.
That said, here are a few pictures of what the beginning of spring looks like in Berlin.
