SPRING LIFESTYLE TRANSITIONING TIPS

As I write this, the calendar indicates that it’s officially the first day of spring, yet when I awakened, it was snowing and unseasonably cold.  At this rate, I think the accumulated snow won’t melt until mid-April, which is probably when the temps will finally begin warming up.  

It’s definitely been a harsh and wicked winter, so anything that reminds me of spring, like birds chirping or new growth poking their cute little green heads through the nearly thawed ground, will be welcome reminders of the new season.

Whenever a season transitions into another, I’m reminded of how these changes impact virtually every aspect of my life.  Following are some helpful tips I’ve developed over the years that will help you transition from winter into spring, and even into summer.  Springtime is a time for renewal in purpose of self, so renew and enjoy my tips and all that this beautiful new season has to offer.    

  

*Change your skin and body care regimens and products.  Go with lighter formulations.  Warming temps also mean more humidity in the air, so you might need to forgo using a serum or booster, plus heavier-weight moisturizers, and just go with a light or medium-weight moisturizer. 

*Consider exfoliating less and reducing the intensity of your cleansing regimen.  If your regimen and product changes are too drastic, your skin will react; so, pay attention to what your skin might be telling you to do, or not to do.

*Consider using chilled face toners or an essential oil-based spritzer to refresh the face and neck areas throughout the day, especially as temperatures heat up and humidity increases. 

*Chill your toner and spritz away for a pick-me-up throughout the day.  Chilled rosewater, even the culinary type, is also a great refresher.

*Change the intensity of your fragrance.  Go with lighter formulations and scent profiles, such as florals or greens, versus woods, ambers, musk, etc.  Remember, as temperatures warm up and humidity levels increase, so too will your body heat, intensifying the fragrance, which could make it too cloying.

*Continue using products with a sunscreen/SPF rating to protect the skin from UVA/UVB rays.  If uncertain, consult a dermatologist or esthetician.

*Both the weight of clothing fabric and color palettes should changeover from weightier-fabric materials with darker colors (e.g. wood, rayon, blends, cashmere, etc.), to lighter-weight fabrics (e.g. cotton, silk, natural fiber blends, etc.) that are more neutral or pastel in color; lighter weight fabrics and colors also keep the skin cooler, naturally.

*When in doubt, look to nature for cues on what to do.  For example, during the day when the sun’s rays are their strongest, most birds and other creatures have the good sense to seek shade and avoid rigorous activity.  Take a cue from them, slow down and stay cooler.  Animals also begin shedding their winter “coats” to prepare for the warmer temperatures. 

*What may have worked during the fall and winter, might not necessarily work in the spring and the lead-up to summer.

*Lighten up on the types of foods you consume and continue drinking plenty of water to maintain a healthy digestive and circulatory system.  Warmer temps and heavier foods are more taxing on the digestive system.

*When over-heated or flushed, slow down and don’t over stress your body.  Try rubbing ice cubes over pressure points (nape of neck, inside wrists, behind knees, temples, arches, outer sides of Achilles heel, etc.) for relief.  Another way to get relief is to soak the feet in cool water, or to take cool showers.

*Take leisurely walks and enjoy the sights and sounds of nature.  The best times for doing this are early morning or at sunset, when it’s cooler and less humid.

*Don’t forget to open those windows and let the balmy breezes and fresher air come indoor and envelope you.

Lastly, take the time to notice the rebirth of nature and enjoy it.  Celebrate and embrace the changes, because they’re a part of the cycle of life.

That’s it for this edition.  Until the next one, remember to take care of yourself and those you love.

By Terry Herman

Terry Herman is a recognized expert in the industry, and regularly covers issues that include business, management, operations, customer care, treatments, products, and trends. In addition to writing and reviewing, she is also a management consultant and motivational speaker.  She also serves on EXPERIENCE | PREMCHIT Journeys In Retreat To Wellness Advisory Board, which is comprised of ten international experts in various fields of wellness and spa.  She also serves as a Group Manager for the popular LinkedIn group, The Spa Buzz.  You can email her at terrysspabeautywellness@gmail.com.

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(All photos by Joseph D. Herman.)