Seven ways to nurture yourself this spring

Spring is the season of regrowth with more daylight hours, which means more time to be productive and creative.

Spring also represents change and the best way to start off a new season is to treat yourself better.

1. Nature walks

Lockdown is currently at Level 2, so the restrictions on movement have eased somewhat in South Africa. However, it still is essential to be safe when you are outdoors in a public space: Go in a group where you can.

Going out to enjoy nature is also a better option than going on a shopping spree if you are on a budget!

You can go on a hiking trail, visit a nature reserve or just go to your local botanical garden and enjoy the way spring brings blooming nature to life again.

2. Spring cleaning

“Spring cleaning” is typically a seasonal clean-up to get rid of the old and welcome the new. You can spring-clean your room or home, declutter and organise your wardrobe, desk and even cosmetic bag.

Throw away or give away anything you don’t need. Change your bedding, or treat yourself to better spaces. Clean up physically also by wiping mirrors and get to those chores you have been putting off.

Not all your spring cleaning has to be physical though, you need a digital cleanse from time to time.

Here is how to best spring clean digitally.

3. Read a book

Pick a book that you have been wanting to read and finally get to it.

You can use electronic books and read a PDF version of the book, or find yourself a physical copy.

If you’re in Cape Town, here are a few second-hand book stores to visit.

4. Movie lists

Create a watchlist of all the movies and series you would like to watch and make some time for it.

You can stream online, check DStv Catch Up or go through everything you added to your list on Netflix.

Spring often tends to be rainy, so it would be the perfect movies and popcorn in bed combo!

5. Grow a garden

Spring is the perfect time to grow plants and interest has spiked over lockdown. Now many millennials and post-millennials take a keen interest in plants.

You can go for a wide-ranging garden outside or opt for the low-maintenance indoor garden. Succulents are particularly easy to grow in pots inside the home.

6. Playlists

Music is therapy for the soul. Create several different playlists for each of your different moods that you can enjoy throughout spring.

A feel-good playlist is a staple for all seasons.

If you’re spiritually inclined also add meditation playlists to start your day.

7. Scented candles and essential oils

Scented candles and essential oils are the modern day visualisation of self-care. The scented candles may help to calm you and radiate good energy, while essential oils each serve a different purpose.

Here is a simple guide to find out more.