We think of spring as a time for change — but none of us could have anticipated the whirlwind of changes that has impacted us all in these last few days. Yet, even as we take the necessary steps to help keep everyone healthy, finding a productive path for ourselves can be uplifting and affirming.
In that spirit, I’ll be spending my social isolation time at home tackling the little projects that make up my typical spring refresh routine. There’s something reaffirming about cleaning, organizing and setting things right! It’s easy to join in: take a look around your home, wardrobe, vanity and beyond and say goodbye to the old and hello to the new. Then follow my tips to get your spring refresh started — even if you’re staying indoors.
Spring clean each and every room.
Not a single room or closet in my home goes untouched during spring cleaning. Now is the perfect time to examine everything down to the nooks and corners and eliminate unnecessary “stuff.” It is amazing how much we can accumulate just over the course of a year. Cleaning out the home not only creates a tidier living space, but it also helps to declutter the mind. Personally, I find it hard to function in a space that has clutter. That could be my OCD kicking in… but trust me, it makes a huge difference.
Add new touches of inspiration to your home.
While working your way through each room, it is also a great time to think about areas of the home that could use a little design refresh. Whether that be a complete remodel or the addition of a few new pieces to the space, take a moment to think about what works for you, your budget, and your lifestyle. Your design refresh could come from a trend that has caught your eye or a new piece that reminds you of a special time, like décor from your travels. Big or small, these changes can bring a whole new sense of inspiration to your space.
Give your beauty routine a spring refresh.
Skincare: It’s important for your skincare routine to change with the weather, as the temperature and humidity can have a big impact on your skin. I am constantly reevaluating my skincare routine throughout the year, factoring in how the environment, my travels and even daily stress levels are making an impact. If it’s been a while since you evaluated your routine, now is a great time to do it. To keep my skin in check year-round, I get facials every six weeks — a great appointment to consider scheduling once the COVID restrictions are lifted. The older I get, the drier my skin gets and as much effort as I put into my skin, I need a helping hand. Estheticians can also help you get your routine in shape, offering great advice during facials.
Nail care: During the winter months I try to give my fingernails and toenails a nail polish holiday, so as soon as spring rolls back around, I hop into my twice a month mani/pedi routine. (Again, your local nail tech will appreciate your support, post-social distancing!)
General heath: Your beauty routine isn’t only impacted by the products you use – your daily habits can also make a big difference. When the temperatures get warmer, I get outside and walk as much as possible with my dog, Boomer. It is amazing how invigorating the spring air is — raising your mood and getting your heart pumping, which does wonders for your skin.
Reset your diet (and taste buds) with seasonal foods.
One of my favorite ways to give your daily routine a healthy refresh is to eat seasonally. Not only does this open up your palette to more seasonal flavors, but it also creates a delicious change to eating habits and provides you with new inspiration in the kitchen. Plus, if you are eating in season, you are always eating the most delicious produce.
I hope these tips make your time at home feel productive, more positive and energized. As you know, my heart yearns to travel, but in effort to do my part, I will be forgoing my upcoming travels and working from home, hugging my family tight, and digging in to my own spring refreshing. Unfortunately, I will also be canceling this spring’s pop-up shop, but stay tuned: I can’t wait to share more with you on what’s to come later on this year.
Stay well, stay hopeful — we’ll get through this together!