St. Patrick’s Day, Easter and Passover may be more familiar March celebrations, but this month also marks National Nutrition Month, an education and information campaign started by the Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics 40 years ago. During March, the Academy shares its philosophy with the nation, encouraging everyone to “Eat Right, Your Way, Every Day.”

As dietitians, our role is to help raise awareness about the importance of good nutrition in promoting overall health and preventing disease. National Nutrition Month isn’t about finding a diet and sticking with it—it’s about learning how to make better food choices and small changes in your day-to-day life that have big consequences on your overall health. Learning how to eat healthier and getting more physically active help you take control of your life.

We are here to answer your questions and motivate you to make a change! Need some pointers? Here are 5 ways you can start:

1. Spring into action

In March we also get to say goodbye to winter and hello to sunshine and warmer weather. Get out there and explore your neighborhood, whether you’re walking, running or biking.

2. Test your green thumb

You don’t need to have an acre of land to start your very own garden. Any window or balcony will allow enough light for some life to grow. Such herbs as basil, parsley and cilantro are easy to care for, and cherry tomatoes or peppers grow great in New York. Check your nearby home and garden store for seeds or baby plants.

3. Learn to cook

Sometimes cookbooks are just not helpful enough when you need to visualize a recipe. I recommend taking a cooking class at a local restaurant or community center. For the tech-savvy, online cooking demonstration videos are usually helpful (hint, try YouTube). Never be shy to ask a friend or family member for help either—they can come over for dinner and help you prepare a meal!

4. Try a new vegetable (again)

Adding variety to our life is key to eating healthier. For instance, you may have thought you disliked Brussels sprouts your whole life, but give them a try again—you just might be surprised. Try preparing the vegetable in different ways until you find a dish you find appealing.

5. Build a support system

Although eating healthy is about becoming a better you, having a buddy to provide words of encouragement can be the best change. Ask your family to be involved or call a friend to set up a weekly date. You aren’t alone!

For more information about National Nutrition Month, please visit the campaign’s website.