We made it: Spring 2015 arrives Friday

Thursday, March 19, 2015, 1:00 PM - It's been a long winter across Canada, but the end is in sight: The spring season officially starts Friday at 6:45 p.m. ET.

The start of the spring season is also caused the vernal equinox.

During this time, the sun crosses the equator and starts to take a higher position over the northern hemisphere - providing us with approximately equal amounts of daylight and darkness.

See these regional spring outlooks: National | British Columbia | Prairies | Ontario | Quebec | Atlantic Region

From this day on the days will get longer, due to the sun's higher position in the northern hemisphere. This trend will continue until we reach the summer solstice on June 20th.

Here are a few ways to help you out of your hibernation:

• Increase your vitamin D consumption: 
  Studies show that vitamin D consumption has a dramatic impact on improving people's moods. The human body absorbs the most Vitamin D through sunlight exposure. It only takes between 10-30 minutes outside with your arms and legs exposed to get what you need.
• Gardening:  
  Gardening can be a great spring activity, which promotes a healthy lifestyle. Aside from physical activity, it can also help support a balanced diet by growing your own fruits and vegetables in your own backyard. Check out these gardening photos to get inspired. 
• Physical exercise:  
  If gardening isn't your thing, try walking for at least 30 minutes per day. At a moderate pace, you could burn up to 200 calories.
• Get your car ready:
  Once temperatures are consistently above 7°C, it's time to remove your winter tires and replace them with all-seasons.
• Check out the spring outlook:
  Find out how the spring season is expected to turn out in your area.