This episode is for anyone who’s ever felt the weight of tax season, the fog of spring allergies, or the nagging thought of “I should be doing more”—whether in health, sustainability, or just life in general.

In this April episode of The Happily Living Podcast, we explore the natural rhythm of the season—from the societal rush of tax deadlines to the energetic invitation of spring’s renewal—and offers a refreshing perspective on how nature calls us not to hustle harder, but to realign, refocus, and reconnect.

We talk about how the world around us—especially in spring—encourages restoration over restriction. It's a time to soften, to listen, and to allow ourselves space. I share personal reflections on how mindset shapes our experience of stress, finances, and wellbeing, and do my best to offer practical, joyful ways to embrace change with compassion rather than self-punishment.

Tune in to learn how small, intentional choices—like what you plant, how you gather, and what you repurpose—can create ripples of positive impact in your life and the world around you.

🌿 Featured Resources & Native Plant Guides:

• Wild Ones Native Garden Designs Explore native garden designs with plant lists tailored to your U.S. ecoregion.
• National Wildlife Federation’s Native Plant Finder (by ZIP code) Enter your ZIP code to discover which native plants support local wildlife.
• MSU Extension – Native Plants & Landscaping for Michigan Regional plant lists and landscaping guidance for Michigan residents.
• Homegrown National Park A rewilding-your-yard movement started by Dr. Doug Tallamy.
• Wild Ones – Native Plants, Natural Landscapes Educational resources and local Michigan chapters to get involved with.

🎥 YouTube Tutorials on Native Lawns & Rain Gardens:

• Making An Oasis In My Hellstrip! Garden Makeover with Native Plants! (Houston, TX) A great example of turning a difficult space into a thriving native garden.
• Lawn Gone: How to Convert Your Lawn to a Native Landscape – Wild Ones Practical steps to ditch traditional turf and create biodiversity.
• Rain Gardens 101 – Washtenaw County Conservation District (Michigan-based) Learn how rain gardens reduce runoff and restore native plants.
• "No Mow May" & Native Lawn Tips – Garden Answer Seasonal advice for skipping the mow and letting pollinators thrive.

With Love and Light,

Gabrielle Brown