Ah, finally time to get back into the Spring of things! If you were cooped up this winter, you’re probably ready to get out and enjoy springtime activities again.

Those activities might hold more meaning this year, as many older adults hunkered down for nearly a year to stay safe and healthy in the pandemic. Now, many people have or hopefully will receive the COVID-19 vaccine.

And springtime might feel like the right time to get active and outside again – with safety in mind, of course.

So, whether you want to try something different this year, or stick to hobbies, events or pastimes you’ve always enjoyed, here are six springtime activities to enjoy:

Plant a garden

You don’t need big plots of land – or any plot, for that matter – to get a green thumb. Older adults can garden on your windowsill, out of a container on patio, from a small patch of dirt in the yard.

Even better, gardening relieves stress, helps with heart health and increases hand strength, according to experts at the University of North Carolina. Bonus: Older adults tend to eat healthier when they grow their own vegetables.

Try herbs on the windowsill. Or plant some patio containers with small tomatoes or favorite flowers. You might dig in deeper with a full garden of vegetables and/or flowers.

Go fish

Fishing can be relaxing (think sitting by a tranquil pond), invigorating (perhaps perched by a busy lake) or vigorous (fly fishing in the river).

First, get a license. Many states offer a lifetime license for one small fee. Be sure to wear proper gear – enough coverage from the warmer Spring sun and sturdy footwear.

And you might even be able to catch tonight’s dinner – or just fish for the fun of it – according to your local guidelines.

Watch birds

One of the best things about birdwatching is you can do it from nearly anywhere. So older adults who have mobility issues can still enjoy this springtime activity.

Birds are more active after a long winter. You might get a birdwatching guide and inexpensive binoculars to get started.

Attend outdoor events

More communities, charities and private organizations are starting to plan outdoor events again. You can check local publications and your favorite websites for events such as outdoor concerts, theater productions, cultural festivals and sport competitions.

Many are free. Some you can bring chairs, snacks and drinks to make a springtime picnic out of the event.

Visit the farmer’s market

Many markets have become more than the local farmer’s latest crop. Some now host local artisans, live music and prepared foods.

So while you can get the latest crop and support local farmers, you can also enjoy a nice stroll and more activities.

Pick flowers or fruit

You can take a visit to the farmer’s market one step further and visit local “you-pick” farms. They vary by season, of course. Some early floral blooms might be in your area. And berries become more prevalent as the summer months warm the fruits.

Of course, you can “pick” fruits and flowers from indoor and outdoor markets, too! Just taking the time to stop and smell the roses (daisies, berries, or whatever you prefer) is what’s important!