Oh spring, I love you. Except you’re not really here, even though technically it’s been spring for almost a month already. One day it’s wintery the next day it’s summer. It’s confusing to say the least. Even though it may not feel spring-like, there are certain things in our daily routine that can be changed up to better suit the warmer, longer days.
Take time for yourself. I’m on a meditation streak using the Calm app. Granted there are days I drift off to sleep, but I am enjoying it. If sitting still isn’t your thing, try a walking or running meditation.
Bring springtime inside. I’ve been keeping fresh flowers in the house for the past several weeks and I love it. A cute bouquet of tulips or hyacinths is just $5 at Trader Joe’s and not too much more at the grocery store. Seeing them and smelling their fragrance is definitely a mood lifter.
Make the most of the longer daylight. Get outside for some fresh air. Studies show that a nature walk helps ease stress, negativity and depression. It can also help improve focus and strengthen the immune system. When I’m able to take my workout outside first thing in the morning, the fresh air and endorphins set me up for a great day. The longer daylight in the evening is a perfect time to enjoy outdoor activities with my kids, including riding bikes, playground fun or a game of Frisbee.
Lighten up your skin care routine. All winter I use a cream-based cleanser and richer moisturizer. Come spring though, my skin is less dry so I change it up. I treat my dull, winter-weary skin to the Clarify & Illuminate line from NOW Foods. The cleanser, toner and moisturizer contain Mitostime™, a concentrated brown algae extract that helps reduce the visible signs of aging. They also contain Vitamin C, collagen, olive oil and Sea Buckthorn Oil to keep skin looking and feeling healthy. I love the subtle, natural citrusy scent. I also love that this line is Paraben free and never tested on animals.
Surround yourself with things that bring you joy. Whether it’s a delicious cup of coffee or tea in a favorite mug, colorful throw pillows, soothing music or a furry friend. Freeing yourself of clutter and embellishing your work- or personal spaces with things you love will help lift your mood, as well as enhance focus and productivity.
Get growing. I’ve got all kinds of seedlings coming along for my garden but it’s A-OK if you prefer something a little less ambitious. Gardening on any scale is amazing for its relaxing qualities and promotes tranquility and healing. A simple container garden is the perfect place to start. Tending a larger garden is a great way to get some extra exercise.
How do you change up your routine for spring?
WIN IT! One lucky winner will receive a Clarify & Illuminate Trio (cleanser, toner and moisturizer) from NOW Foods. Retail value: $57.00.
I’m linking up with Meranda, Lacey and Rachel for the Friday Five.
KV says
I’m looking forward to going to outdoor concerts.
MaryEllen says
Lake time!! 😀 And… my rhubarb plant. (I love fresh rhubarb!)
Lisa @ Mile by Mile says
Im still using the calm app and loving it! I have really been trying to get outside more and it makes such a difference for my mood and energy.
Mary BEth Jackson says
It definitely warmed up in a hurry here! Spring is blooming and I am loving all the flowers and promises of home grown goodies! I am reading good things about the calm app- I may have to look into it. Maybe I can get the hubby to do it with me- HA! Have a great Easter weekend!
Kimberly says
I really love that it’s no longer dark @ 5:30pm. Gives me extra time to get in miles outside after work 🙂
Kimberly Hatting says
Oh, Spring, How I love Thee….. 😉 I love seeing all the flowers/bulbs/trees in bloom. The early morning miles are getting brighter and brighter, literally. Life is good 😉
fairytales and fitness says
I’d love to grow a garden but I know it’s a lot of work for something that will probably die. I do not have a green thumb!
Wendy@Taking the Long Way Home says
I’m looking forward to the sun, which we’ve seen very little of this spring! Talk about April showers!
I’m going to kick off that Oprah/Deepak meditation today. I’m home for 30 days, I may as well get all zen.
The Accidental Marathoner says
How about yesterday’s weather? Dark, dreary, raining morning, and then poof! Such a beautiful afternoon! Our weather has been crazy, to say the least! I’m hearing rain for tomorrow, but you know what they say about April showers. I definitely get outside more in the nicer weather…not just for running, but for any excuse I can find. Can’t wait to get my garden up and going!
alexandra @ my urban family says
I’m looking forward to being able to run out the door without a coat – or a hat, or gloves, or a scarf, or a blanket ha
Deborah @ Confessions of a mother runner says
I like the idea about buying yourself fresh flowers each week. I am going to do that today! I wish I had my own garden but I am so not a green thumb
Lesley says
It’s been great to get outside for my runs. I do end up being tired after the fresh air, but it means I sleep hard at night.
Angela Saver says
I am most looking forward to getting out in the warm outdoors this spring and power walking our hilly neighborhood with my hubby and kids! Thanks for an AWESOME giveaway!!
Susie @ Suzlyfe says
So happy that blooms are out. Pollen actually makes me happy, lol
runinboise says
The nicer weather would be nice. This time last year we had more asparagus then we new what to do with growing in our back yard. They JUST started coming up on Wednesday!
Zenaida says
I am looking forward to flowers and nice weather.
Julie says
Cleaning out my closets and pitching everything that is now too big for me! 🙂
DJ says
I am looking forward to going biking more often and gardening.
Judy @ Chocolaterunsjudy says
I bought us some flowers to grace our Passover table. 🙂
We are not past the possibilities of a hard freeze here — came close this morning, although it will actually warm up today. And be very warm tomorrow. Spring often doesn’t really get here until summer!
I love my Calm app! Although I never fall asleep during it. But I usually meditate in the mornings.
This is the time of year I switch from soups to salads, though.
Jill Conyers says
The weather! I’ve also been looking forward to green grass and blue skies. Have a great weekend Marcia.
Abby @BackatSquareZero says
I too change it up by taking advantage of the fact that it is still warm and LIGHT when I get home from work by being able to run on my trail at night. Usually I have to run lighted roads.
Starla says
These look and sound great. I am looking forward to the nice weather here in Georgia and also the beautiful flowers, trees and skies!
Rachel says
I have the least green thumb ever. I was planning on doing some gardening this summer but I think it’s a bigger project than I’m ready to undertake.
Clarinda says
I’ve been loving the smell of spring this year and looking forward to it sticking around for a bit.
Maria says
I’m looking forward to riding my bike, fresh asparagus grown locally and spending time in my garden
linda says
i’m looking forward to playing tennis outdoors
Jordan D. says
I’m just so ready for warm weather and longer days!
Mahdi Martin says
I’m looking forward to more rain and warmth this Spring! Goodbye dry and icky winter!
Karrie says
I am looking forward to great weather
Danielle says
This spring I am looking forward to opening my windows and getting fresh air.
Stacey raymond says
Wearing shorts!!!
julie says
i’m looking forward to our beach trips