Spring is here which means warm weather, sunshine and an opportunity for new beginnings. Seasonal changes prompt reflection and an opportunity to implement self-care routines, so here are small steps toward a glow-up to prepare for spring.
Reflection
The key to leading a centered life is envisioning one first. Consider finding a wellness journal like Papier’s or using an app like Headspace to incorporate meditation into your daily self-care. Even things as simple as calling a loved one or going out to lunch will kick a seasonal slump to the curb. Gloomy weather affects your mind, take care of it first to truly enjoy the changing seasons.
Hydration
Cold weather takes all of the moisture out of our skin and body leaving us dry, cracked and dehydrated. Try a water bottle that tracks your progress, lotion and a good lip balm to hydrate your face, lips, hands and body.
Skin Care
When we’re rushed in the morning or stayed up too late studying, it’s easy to neglect skin care. Step up your routine with a brightening mask and hydrating serum that you commit to once or twice a week. Or try just to apply a simple sunscreen every morning to create consistency and protect yourself from the sun.
Fresh air and exercise
Spend some time going for a walk or jog and breathing in the fresh air. Not only will this get your body moving, but it will also give you some much-needed Vitamin D and time to clear your head. Glover Archbold Park is one trail near campus that features a calming stream to sit by and center yourself. Or, check out D.C.’s Rock Creek Park, which is full of trails to explore. However, if you want to stay inside try Yoga with Adrienne or PilatesBodyRaven and find a workout that you enjoy. Even if it doesn’t become routine, trying something new may boost your mood.
Brighten up your wardrobe
Whether going on a shopping spree, borrowing a friend’s shirt or just trying a new combination of your clothes, wearing something exciting is essential to any glow-up. Download an app like Style DNA that tells you what colors and styles suit you. Lean into the season's bright colors and watch how they light you up.
Try a new recipe
It is time to transition from soup to salad. Pick up a spring salad cookbook like “Seriously Good Salads” and try some new recipes. Something healthy, delicious, easy and filling to add to your meal planning is essential to be your best self by spring. Tomatoes, avocados and strawberries are about to come back into season, meaning they will taste extra delicious atop a seasonal salad.
Anything worth doing 100 percent is worth doing a little bit. Incorporating self-care doesn’t have to be an all-or-nothing endeavor and these steps are some examples to get yourself feeling your best for spring and transitioning out of a winter slump. As the weather starts feeling better, you will too. And when you feel your best, you look your best.
This article was edited by Annmarie Melsheimer, Kylie Bill and Nina Heller. Copy editing done by Isabelle Kravis, Sophia Rocha and Stella Guzik.
