Regular exercise is a healthy choice for most people—and a great way to shake off winter gloom. But when common winter illnesses hit, sometimes the healthiest choice is to stay home and rest. Here are some basic tips to help exercisers know when to grab their shoes and when to head back to bed.

DO the neck check. If all of your symptoms are above your neck, such as a stuffy nose or mild headache, then it's probably fine to exercise, according to Thomas Weidner, professor of athletic training at Ball State University, in an interview with the New York Times. Multiple studies have shown that exercise does not worsen cold symptoms or lengthen the cold.

DON'T hit the gym if you have any symptoms below the neck, including hacking coughs, nausea, upset stomach, fatigue or body aches. Stay home instead and rest.

DO take it easy. According to health.com, strongly consider minimizing the intensity if you're used to high-impact workouts. A 20-minute walk is a good choice if you're under the weather, and it could alleviate your cold symptoms.

DON'T power through a fever or worsening symptoms. You should be fever-free for at least 24 hours before you exercise again. If you feel worse during your workouts, then recognize that as a sign from your body that you need to rest.

What can you find in the middle of April and March, but not at the beginning or end of either? –The letter R!

What is a flower's favorite kind of pickle? – A daffo-dill.

What did the gardener do after she retired? – Not mulch.

Does February march? – No, but April may!

March is a special month in the cycle of the seasons. After months of cold and darkness, we are blessed with the warm embrace of sun, longer days and brighter skies. It's a month when nature sparkles with beauty, coming out of its winter slumber to welcome us into spring.

The animals around us also take notice of the changing climate. Birds return from their wintery migration south and sing sweetly in the new air; squirrels come out of hiding and scurry around searching for food; and trees burst with new life as colorful buds blossom along their branches. All these signs of change bring joy to our hearts as we watch nature slowly come alive again, after a long period of dormancy.

This awakening also brings about a mixture of emotions—both exciting renewal and bittersweet longing for what has passed—for those who have experienced this time before know that it will soon be gone again just as quickly as it arrived. It's a reminder that time is fleeting and to enjoy every moment while it lasts!

From the chill in the air to the sweet aroma of flowers, March is full of wonders as nature reveals its secrets once again in all its splendor. Let us take advantage of this magical time by embracing all that comes along with it—new beginnings, fresh perspectives, and even greater appreciation for those around us.

Sincerely,

Gino Pezzani

Your Real Estate/Mortgage Consultant For Life

International Women's Day, March 8: A day to celebrate women and women's rights worldwide.

St. Patrick's Day, March 17: A global celebration of the Irish culture. Don't forget to wear green! *Pinch* 

Spring Equinox, March 20: This day marks the beginning of Spring. Wahoo!

National Mom and Pop Shop Owners Day, March 29: Our economy could not run without mom-and-pop businesses. Head to your favorite small business and thank them with a purchase.

National Doctors Day, March 30: This is an annual observance dedicated to physicians who enrich and save lives. Why not call or text your doctor and thank them for all they do?