The reason I continue to diverge from inspiring interiors content for more down to earth ditties is that service-centered followers here deserve reminders to care for themselves. Ever busy caring for others, they neglect their own needs for rest and recovery. We began with ideas HERE.
Springtime Self-Kindness Hacks
DIY Zen?
Simple, thoughtful gestures make a difference.
Will we ever have a garden on the level of the one in Provence above? It’s unlikely and more than okay since we can make do with so much less. Have a sunny area for a simple plant, chair, and perch for a drink?
Is there a place outside without glaring distractions to “bathe your inner world in transforming presence?”
Little can become much with the right spirit and intention.
Humor as Daily Medicine
Have a friend who totally gets your sense of humor?
This beauty on the left is the sunshine girl who can effortlessly melt away my cares and send me into fits of laughter. Were we not sisters, I would count it the greatest honor to be her friend.
If you’re reading this, Jo, I love you more than the palms, more than sea turtles emerging on North Shores.
Self-kindness Soaks
Schedule an appointment to meditatively soak to soothe muscles, shift energies, soften skin, and seek a new mind.
Sometimes a long soak will work wonders. An energy healer I know recommends adding an 8 oz. box of baking soda to bathwater. If a lovely oil is what your skin craves, this one is scented with Rosemary and Bergamot.
I am trying out a new hair system since mine is shedding, and I have noticed that it forces me to slow down (the red light cap takes 15 minutes, shampoo needs 3 minutes before rinsing).
This is not a bad idea with the hustled pace that has become the norm.
No need to be in a rush for this soak or any other part of your day. I find transitions matter and have reached an age where I won’t rush unless it is life threatening. Moving slowly is safer and calming.
AVEDA’s Foot Relief (above) is a wonderful nightly ritual.
This is a delicious mask I keep repurchasing, and it is pricey but lasts a long time when you reach for it only weekly.
Still sold on these muslin baby washcloths (below) too. Between the baby food-like skin care from Oak Essentials and these gentle baby cloths, you are primed to baby yourself.
As you should! No tub for baby? Not enough time for babying? Give those tootsies a calming bubble bath in a bowl. Close your eyes and release daily tensions. Luxuriate as you seek the grace you need.
Awake to the Present Moment
Here’s a proactive way to cease worrying and become fully present:
Fresh New Growth
It need not be a new vegetable garden or a rescue kitten, but welcome the joy of growth into your life this Spring. Succulents or a little pot of rosemary near the kitchen window will do. Notice the gardeners and animal lovers in your life whose “chores” keep them centered in what brings them life force and joy.
Busy Hands With Beauty
Did the watercolor by Jeanne at the start of this post make your heart sing with its vibrancy? Maybe it’s time to try watercolor painting or take a ceramics class.
Here’s a place to start:
Ever wanted to learn to upholster? Here’s a book by Amanda Brown or you can take her online course and learn to make an upholstered headboard.
Add Super Greens
Not only is it a challenge to completely overhaul your diet, it may be unwise. Try adding just one new plant at a time and subtracting processed and artificial-laden options.
Spinach is my green thing. I always have a quantity of fresh organic baby spinach on hand to work it into meals daily. It’s a superfood which helps me prevent macular degeneration running in the family.
I also add kale, celery, cucumbers, and green apples to my weekly list.
In a helpful article about enhancing the immune system, we’re encouraged: “Don’t worry about measuring exact amounts of produce. Just fill at least half your plate at each meal with colorful vegetables and fruits. Or, eat a pile of produce the size of your head each day.”
This is a habit I picked up years ago. More fruits and veges on my plate than animal products or grains. This also helps since I have a huge appetite and want quantity.
Give Skin a Boost
Are there lots of weather fluctuations where you live? Changes in humidity and seasonal conditions with springtime often mean our skincare needs change.
Skin is an organ, and skincare regimens are not solely for high maintenance types; caring for skin can become part of your self-kindness practice.
Subscribe to MILIEU
Each issue over-delivers, and you will feel beyond spoiled with the beauty shared!
Remember the cover (above) of the spring 2021 issue? Mercy! And the home of Nashville designer Robin Rains with architecture by Jeffrey Dungan!
Collect Inspiring Ideas for Spring & Summer
You can begin here in my archives HERE or go directly to my Pinterest and maybe create a new SPRING related board.
Think Spring Apparel
I admire offerings from J. Crew, Nordstrom Rack (check out their activewear and don’t forget about Lululemon), and H&M for a number of lovely finds.
Spend an Afternoon With a Journal
Boost a Mood
It’s always fun to try a new lip color, and if you’re into natural, beigey nudes, here’s a subtle one from Kosas. Plumping and hydrating without stickiness.
Give Yourself a Day Off
If possible, claim an afternoon. Park yourself in a peaceful pocket to read, people watch, sip, or sun. Drive with the windows down and blast nostalgic music. Do nothing at all…but own it and spend it.
Fake a Tan
If you’re after bronze goddess factor but don’t want to resemble Wonka workers or a leader of the free world…check out the sun blush (IT Cosmetics) collection!
This little guy is also a clean way to get a healthy tan:
Free Beauty Treatment
Do you REALLY need the nudge to treat yourself to extra minutes of sleep to undo damaging stress, boost collagen production and immune function, minimize cortisol levels, improve your mood, and heal any number of hurts?
Still Hooked On This Dreamy Pillow!
Sleep in. Unplug from media for hours before you go to sleep. Dream of spring tulips…
More SPRING reflections and ideas in THIS.
Peace to you right where you are.
-michele
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