Spring and Easter are times of physical and spiritual rebirth and renewal. I encourage all of us to mark this season and holiday by striving to improve ourselves and to grow in our own ways.

One significant way we can improve our lives is by getting active.

Including regular exercise in your daily routine can give you the energy to meet any challenge and provide a positive example to your children about the importance of a lifetime of healthy habits.

More than 30 percent of Michigan children and two-thirds of Michigan adults are considered overweight or obese.

If each of us embraced the spirit of renewal and started regular physical activity, we could improve the health of our community and the entire state.

Participating in a local 5K race is a great way to set goals, get fit and have a positive impact.

Here is a list of some Southwest Michigan races in April: Sarett Spring Stampede 5K and 1 Mile runs in Benton Harbor on April 7; Solar Run 5K in Berrien Springs on April 8; Hero Run 10K and 5K runs in Niles on April 14; Not All Wounds Bleed 5K in Berrien Springs on April 15; Run To Your Mother 5K and 1K kids run in St. Joseph on April 21; and the Run for the Fund in Berrien Springs on April 29.

Area May races include the Run for the Buds 10K and 5K runs in St. Joseph on May 5; Michigan Shores Mini or 5K run in New Buffalo on May 6; AmazinGrace Off-Road 5K in Watervliet on May 12; Girls on the Run 5K in Berrien Springs on May 17; Dream Spay 5K in Niles on May 19; and the Super Hero Run for Belly Buttons 5K run in Buchanan on May 26.

Residents looking for a local race can also visit RunningInTheUSA.com. After clicking on “Find by State” under “All Races” and selecting Michigan, residents can filter the runs by county for races in Berrien, Cass or St. Joseph counties.

John Proos, R-St. Joseph, represents the 21st District, which includes Berrien, Cass and St. Joseph counties.