The official first day of spring was March 21st, which means the spring season is rapidly approaching, and in a sense, for some it is already here. As a season of new beginnings and growth, spring allows for life after the cold, dreary late fall and winter seasons that have come and passed.

The best day of the year is the very first spring day, not the first official day of spring. The first day where you don't have to wear a jacket, and all you want to do is be outside, is what I define as the real first day of spring.

Spring has always been my favorite season. Despite my terrible spring allergies and April showers, I have always felt drawn to the season in general. The warmer weather and the hopeful attitude the season brings also shows that summer, and summer vacation, are right around the corner.

To me personally, spring brings sunshine and an opportunity to get outside. The sunshine and the warm weather is sure to brighten anyone's mood. For my fellow baseball fans, spring brings the beginning of the regular major league baseball season. When it comes to hockey and basketball, the regular seasons wrap up and playoffs begin.

For those who love music, spring brings outdoor concerts and music festivals. If you aren't one for sports or music, who doesn't love a good walk in the park, a jog, a bike ride and blooming flowers at every turn?

Besides the things that happen and can be done during this bright and cheery season, the idea of spring is just as appealing, if not even more appealing than the season's manifestation.

Spring has been said to be about finding light after darkness and having a new beginning. It's about taking that first step toward a journey of growth and positivity. Who doesn't need a pick-me-up every once in a while? The spring season is perfect for that.

After all, that is where the idea of spring cleaning comes from. People thoroughly clean their rooms, their houses, or whatever they decide needs a cleaning and a new beginning.

It is a weight lifted from your spirit, and it is permission to feel the sunlight radiating on your skin, inspiring change with the changing season and releasing the darkness to bloom as the flowers do.

So this spring, allow the beauty of nature, the songs of the birds, and the long, wonderful days of sunlight to foster some growth. Choose to go outside, spend time with people you care about. Allow yourself to listen to embrace change and use it for your own personal growth.

Take off your jacket and take off any negative energy in your life as well. Free yourself from anything that is stressful, displeasing and unnecessary in your life. Make sure that you do you. After all, spring is the time for rebirth.

Ask yourself this spring: What would you like to do? How would you like to change? Ask yourself what would make you complete and happy. Take this spring to blossom into the best version of yourself that you possibly can. Allow yourself to be happy that spring is here, just like I am. You won't regret it.