There’s something about spring that always makes me feel like I’m waking up from a long, deep sleep. The days grow longer, the air smells fresher, and suddenly, I have the urge to shed the heaviness of winter and embrace something new. Over the years, I’ve learned that spring is the perfect time to reset, not just my surroundings, but also my mind and body.

After months of cozy hibernation, I like to use this season as an opportunity to check in with myself. What habits am I holding onto that no longer serve me? How can I bring more joy and energy into my daily life? If you’ve been feeling sluggish or in need of a refresh, this is your invitation to embrace spring self-care in a way that feels good for you. Here are some of my favorite ways to welcome the new season with open arms.

1. Refresh Your Skincare Routine

I used to think my winter skincare routine could last all year, but I learned the hard way that what works in cold, dry months isn’t ideal for spring’s warmth and humidity. I remember one April when I kept using my heavy winter moisturizer, only to find my skin breaking out like never before. Now, as soon as spring rolls around, I swap out richer creams for lightweight, hydrating formulas and incorporate more SPF to protect against the stronger sun.

Spring is also a great time to exfoliate away dull winter skin and introduce brightening ingredients like vitamin C. I love setting aside a Sunday afternoon to do a full skincare refresh, face mask, deep cleansing, and maybe even a new lip balm in a fun, fruity scent.

• Exfoliate to Reveal Fresh Skin – Gently slough away winter’s buildup with a mild exfoliant, helping your skin absorb moisture better and appear more radiant.
• Switch to a Lighter Moisturizer – Trade your thick winter creams for a water-based or gel moisturizer that provides hydration without heaviness.
• Sunscreen is a Must – As the sun becomes stronger, SPF should be a non-negotiable part of your morning routine to protect against UV damage.
• Embrace Vitamin C – Incorporating a Vitamin C serum can brighten your complexion and combat any lingering dullness from the colder months.

By making these simple adjustments, your skin will reflect the fresh, dewy vibrance of spring.

2. Declutter for Mental Clarity

Spring cleaning isn’t just for closets and cabinets, it’s also a powerful act of self-care. There’s something incredibly freeing about clearing out the excess, whether it’s physical clutter or mental baggage. One year, I tackled my overflowing bathroom shelf, tossing old skincare bottles and half-used products I hadn’t touched in months. Instantly, my space felt lighter, and so did I.

Decluttering extends beyond physical spaces, too. I like to take a digital detox by clearing out my email inbox, unfollowing accounts that no longer inspire me, and even spending a weekend without social media. It’s amazing how much more present and refreshed I feel afterward.

• Start Small – Decluttering an entire home can feel overwhelming, so begin with a single drawer, closet, or room.
• Let Go of the Old – If you haven’t worn it, used it, or needed it in the past year, it’s time to donate or recycle.
• Introduce Fresh Scents – Open windows to let in fresh air and incorporate natural scents like lavender, lemon, or eucalyptus to energize your home.
• Add Greenery – Bringing in fresh flowers or low-maintenance plants like succulents or pothos can instantly lift your space and mood.

Decluttering isn’t just about getting rid of things—it’s about making space for new energy and possibilities.

3. Get Outside and Soak Up the Sun

After a long winter of cozy indoor days, there’s no better feeling than stepping outside and letting the sun warm your skin. One of my favorite spring rituals is taking my morning coffee outside, even if it’s just for five minutes. It’s a simple way to set the tone for the day and remind myself to slow down and appreciate the little things.

Spending time outdoors, whether it’s a walk in the park, a weekend hike, or even just sitting on a balcony, does wonders for mental and physical well-being. The fresh air, the greenery, the sound of birds, it all signals to my brain that it’s time to embrace a new season of energy and growth.

• Go for a Walk – A morning or evening stroll in nature can improve your mood and provide gentle exercise.
• Practice Yoga in the Sunshine – Stretching outdoors helps you connect with your breath and the changing season.
• Try a New Outdoor Activity – Whether it’s hiking, biking, or gardening, engaging in movement that brings you joy makes exercise feel less like a chore.
• Soak Up the Sun (Safely) – A little bit of sunlight exposure can boost your Vitamin D levels, which supports immune function and mental health.

Moving your body in a way that feels good and aligns with the season’s renewal is one of the most powerful forms of self-care.

4. Nourish Your Body with Seasonal Foods

One of the best parts of spring is the abundance of fresh, vibrant foods. I always look forward to visiting the farmers’ market and filling my basket with juicy strawberries, crisp greens, and bright citrus. There’s something so energizing about eating foods that are in season, they just taste better and make me feel more in tune with the world around me.

Incorporating more fresh, whole foods into my diet always gives me a natural energy boost. I love making smoothie bowls packed with berries and a drizzle of honey or tossing together a colorful spring salad with avocado, radishes, and a lemon vinaigrette. Eating well doesn’t have to be complicated, sometimes, the simplest meals bring the most joy.

• Eat More Greens – Leafy vegetables like spinach, arugula, and kale are packed with vitamins and help detoxify your system.
• Incorporate Seasonal Fruits – Strawberries, apricots, and citrus fruits provide a natural sweetness and a boost of antioxidants.
• Hydrate with Infused Water – Add cucumber, mint, or berries to your water for a refreshing and hydrating boost.
• Opt for Lighter Meals – Swap heavy comfort foods for colorful salads, grain bowls, and lean proteins that fuel your body without weighing you down.

By nourishing your body with fresh, whole foods, you’ll feel more vibrant and ready to embrace the season’s energy.

5. Embrace Mindfulness and New Routines

Spring feels like a natural reset, which makes it the perfect time to revisit my daily routines. Over the years, I’ve realized that self-care isn’t just about face masks and bubble baths, it’s also about creating space for mindfulness and intention.

I like to start my mornings with a few minutes of deep breathing or journaling. One spring, I committed to writing down three things I was grateful for every morning, and it completely shifted my mindset. Even on stressful days, those small moments of reflection helped me feel grounded and positive.

If journaling isn’t your thing, try adding a new ritual to your day, maybe it’s stretching in the morning, listening to an uplifting podcast, or setting an intention before you start work. Small shifts can lead to big changes in how you feel.

• Start a Journaling Practice – Write down your thoughts, goals, and things you’re grateful for to create a positive mindset shift.
• Meditate Outdoors – The fresh air and natural sounds provide the perfect backdrop for a mindfulness meditation session.
• Set Intentions for the Season – Instead of focusing on strict goals, set gentle intentions that align with how you want to feel and grow this spring.
• Limit Digital Overload – Take breaks from screens and social media to give your mind time to reset and recharge.

A mindful approach to spring self-care allows you to be more present and enjoy the beauty of the season.

6. Reconnect with Joy and Creativity

Winter often puts me in a routine-focused mindset, but spring reminds me to make space for joy and spontaneity. This is the season to try something new, whether it’s a creative hobby, a weekend getaway, or simply saying “yes” to an unexpected adventure.

Last spring, I signed up for a watercolor painting class on a whim, even though I had zero experience. It ended up being one of the most relaxing and fulfilling things I’d done in a long time. The process of creating, without pressure, just for fun, was the ultimate act of self-care.

Whatever brings you joy, make time for it this season. Read a book that inspires you, dance in your living room, plant a little herb garden, spring is all about renewal, and that includes refreshing your sense of playfulness and curiosity.

• Try a New Creative Hobby – Whether it’s painting, crafting, baking, photography, or gardening, engaging in creativity can be incredibly fulfilling.
• Read for Pleasure – Pick up a book that excites or inspires you and carve out time to enjoy it without distractions.
• Listen to Music that Lifts Your Spirits – Create a spring playlist filled with upbeat, feel-good songs to boost your mood.
• Capture the Beauty Around You – Take photos of blooming flowers, sunrise walks, or simple moments that make you smile.

Reconnecting with creativity and joy allows you to embrace the present moment and bring more fun into your daily routine.

7. Refresh Your Sleep Routine

As the days grow longer, it’s tempting to stay up later, but maintaining good sleep hygiene is essential for overall well-being. I used to struggle with adjusting my sleep schedule in spring, often finding myself scrolling through my phone late into the night. Now, I make a conscious effort to wind down earlier by dimming the lights, reducing screen time, and sticking to a consistent bedtime.

Switching to lighter, breathable bedding also makes a huge difference in sleep quality. I love opening my windows in the evening to let in the crisp spring air, it instantly makes my bedroom feel fresher and more inviting. Prioritizing rest helps me wake up feeling more energized and ready to embrace the season.

• Create a Nighttime Ritual – Wind down with a cup of herbal tea, light stretching, or reading to signal to your body that it’s time for rest.
• Keep a Consistent Sleep Schedule – Try to go to bed and wake up at the same time each day, even on weekends.
• Let in Natural Light in the Morning – Open your blinds to let in the morning sunlight, which helps regulate your body’s internal clock.
• Limit Blue Light Exposure Before Bed – Reduce screen time at least an hour before sleeping to promote deeper, more restful sleep.

Embracing a Season of Growth

Spring is a reminder that change can be beautiful, and that growth isn’t something to fear, it’s something to embrace. As nature comes back to life, we have the opportunity to do the same.

By refreshing our routines, nourishing our bodies, and making space for joy and mindfulness, we can step into the new season feeling lighter, brighter, and more connected to ourselves. However you choose to practice self-care this spring, do it in a way that feels right for you.

So take a deep breath, step outside, and let the fresh spring air fill your lungs. A new season is here, and it’s yours to embrace.