Relax, Restore, Renew

Relax, Restore, Renew

Spring is here. The flowers are blooming, the trees are blossoming and the birds are chirping. All around us, nature is coming alive with the promise and hope of a new season. It is a season of renewal. Just like nature, we can use this time of year to grow, to refresh and to rejuvenate.

Many of us make resolutions in January. We make promises to ourselves that we will exercise, eat healthier, be a better person and change the world. But like a bear in the cold, winter months we crawl back into our caves and hibernate in the comfort of our old habits. We forget all about our big goals and settle for business as usual. Resolutions are great but usually we make them, break them and then start all over again the next year. Perhaps we should consider a resolution renewal. The word “renewal” refers to becoming fresh or new again but it also refers to the act of extending a contract or some sort of agreement. This spring, I propose that we do both. Let’s take it as an opportunity to relax, restore and renew and as an opportunity to renew that contract we made with ourselves Jan 1.

A woman of honorable distinction stands out because of her confidence, style and grace but in order to have a distinct presence we need to be sure that we are showing our best selves to the world. Over the next few weeks we will focus on ways we can renew ourselves physically, mentally, emotionally and spiritually. Let’s start with physical…

Ideas for Physical Renewal
1. Get moving – Go ahead and admit it. You made a resolution this year (like every year) to get in shape. It is hard to stay motivated to get up and exercise when you have to dress in three layers to get out the door. With the warm weather take the opportunity to get outside and go for a walk or run. There are a number of charity 5K events scheduled in the spring so you can even walk/run for a cause.
2. Eat fresh – If you are tired of the same old fruit and vegetables, mix it up with the fresh crops that peak in the spring such as strawberries, mango, avocado and asparagus. See if there is a local business that will deliver fresh fruits and veggies to your door. It is a perfect way to get a fresh variety every week while supporting a local business.
3. Loosen up – Schedule a massage. A spa is a perfect place to relax and indulge in you. If a day at the spa seems expensive, find a local massage school. Many have students as well as instructors who will provide services for half the price of most spas. If a massage is not your thing get a facial or body wrap.
4. Moderate Makeover – Go through your makeup and purge old items. There are several articles online that provide information on when to throw out makeup items. Look for new color options. If you have been wearing dark lipstick all winter, maybe you want to go for lighter colors in the spring. Consider signing up for a subscription to get sample beauty boxes. I started doing this last year and once a month I get a box with travel size samples of different hair and makeup products. It is a great way to try a variety of products without the expense of purchasing full size items that you may never use again. Plus, you will have a supply of travel size items for your next trip.
5. New do – Don’t forget your crowning glory…your hair. Maybe it’s time to try a new cut, color or style. Even if it is just a new hair accessory or a new way to work that bun, a small change can make a big difference.
6. Shopping spree – This is not about spending a lot of money but rather strategically purchasing a few items to spruce up your wardrobe. Warm weather means showing off those arms and legs. Pick out a fun new sundress or a fancy halter top. Step out of your comfort zone.  Know what works for you and accents your best features.

These are just a few ideas to get you started.  Take a few minutes to think of ways that you can relax, restore and renew this spring. Come up with an action plan and go for it.

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