Spring Into Action: 31 Ways to Feel Inspired and Energized This Season (2023)

As sure as the oak pollen count is high and the bluebonnets are in full family-picture-taking bloom, spring has officially sprung here in Austin. And I’d be willing to bet my Tecovas that for many of you, it may just be the most magical time to live here (or visit). The frozen margs and vegan queso combos are aplenty, the sculptures at Laguna Gloria seem to grow a little larger, the frisbees and kites flying at Zilker Park soar a little higher, and even the ever-popular winding food truck circuit lines seem to grow a little happier.And though it may not be the case everywhere—I’m thinking of my up-north friends—I’m sure we all have spring self care ideas on our minds. Why? Because there’s no better time of year for a refresh.

After another unpredictably odd winter of power outages and broken tree limbs and citywide WiFi non-comply, we’re all ready to throw on a caftan, roll the car windows down, and wrap our wide-open arms around this season of blossoming growth.

Featured image by Michelle Nash.

31 Spring Self Care Ideas to Energize Your Season

So how best to embrace this happy space and make the most of the pre-swelter summer that is just a hop, skip, and a flip-flop away? And what’s more, how do we best stay healthy and nourished from the inside out to make the most of this glorious spring season?

To lean into this transitional time of year, we tapped Austin-based Dr. Alex Carrasco, MD of Nourish Medicine and her husband Dr. Daniel Carrasco, MD of Sanova Dermatology to get their take on how to nourish ourselves with spring self care ideas. From tactics and tinctures to products and practices, they have gifted us with a golden list of feel-good reminders.

Be sure to bookmark this one—it’s full of tips that you’ll want to revisit time and time again.

Supplements to Add to Your Spring Routine

Sure, you might be loading up on your greens and getting plenty of fresh veg this spring. But to fill in the gaps, Dr. Alex says to prioritize the following supplements.

Vitamin C

Vitamin C is a powerful antioxidant that strengthens the immune system, helping you fight off spring allergies. It also aids in collagen production for healthy skin and assists in the absorption of iron for increased energy. Add vitamin C to your daily routine to stay healthy and vibrant this spring.

Quercetin

Quercetin is a natural antihistamine and anti-inflammatory compound found in various fruits and vegetables. It helps alleviate allergy symptoms by stabilizing mast cells, which release histamines during allergic reactions. Including quercetin in your spring supplement regimen can make allergy season more manageable.

Probiotics

Probiotics are essential for a healthy gut, which plays a significant role in immune function. By promoting good gut bacteria, probiotics may help alleviate some allergy symptoms and improve overall digestion.

B-Complex Vitamins

B-complex vitamins are crucial for maintaining energy levels, supporting brain function, and managing stress. They help convert the food you eat into usable energy, keeping you energized throughout the day. Add a B-complex supplement to your spring routine to stay sharp and energetic.

Omega-3 Fatty Acids

Omega-3 fatty acids are essential nutrients with anti-inflammatory properties that support brain, heart, and joint health. They may also help alleviate seasonal allergy symptoms by reducing inflammation.

The Best Spring Workouts

The weather’s the best it’s been all year, so why not make the most of it outdoors? Dr. Alex recommends transitioning your workouts outside to double up on the feel-good endorphins.

Outdoor Cardio

Spring’s mild temperatures make it the perfect time to take your cardio outdoors. Enjoy brisk walks, jogs, or bike rides while soaking up the sunshine and boosting your mood with some much-needed vitamin D.

Yoga in the Park

Reconnect with nature and find balance through outdoor yoga sessions. The fresh air, green surroundings, and calming sounds of nature will enhance your practice, leaving you feeling revitalized and grounded.

Bodyweight Circuit Training

Utilize parks and playgrounds to perform bodyweight circuit training. This versatile workout method improves strength, endurance, and agility, making the most of the enjoyable spring weather.

Hiking and Trail Running

Explore local trails and immerse yourself in the beauty of spring. Hiking and trail running provide a full-body workout, elevate your heart rate, and help you appreciate the blossoming season.

Join a Sports League

Spring is a great time to join a local sports league, such as soccer, ultimate frisbee, or beach volleyball. Team sports are an engaging way to stay active, socialize, and enjoy friendly competition in the pleasant weather.

Tips for Making the Most of Spring at Home

‘Tis the season for spring cleaning. Dr. Alex shares what to focus on for a refreshed routine at home.

Spring Cleaning

A thorough spring cleaning helps eliminate dust, allergens, and clutter from your living space. A clean, organized home promotes a more relaxed and focused atmosphere, enhancing your well-being. (Psst… for tips on how to tackle your spring cleaning, read this.)

Air Purifiers

Invest in a quality air purifier with a HEPA filter to reduce allergens and improve indoor air quality. This can be especially helpful for those suffering from seasonal allergies, making your home a comfortable haven. My favorite is Austin Air.

Essential Oils

Diffuse refreshing and uplifting essential oils like lemon, lavender, and eucalyptus to create a fresh and inviting atmosphere. These oils can help purify the air, boost your mood, and support overall wellness. Less is more here—don’t overdo it!

Open the Windows

Let fresh air circulate by opening windows and doors when the weather is mild. This simple act can improve air quality, reduce indoor allergens, and create a healthier living environment.

Bring Nature Indoors

Incorporate indoor plants into your home décor to improve air quality and add a touch of greenery. Plants like snake plants, spider plants, and peace lilies are not only visually appealing but also help filter out indoor pollutants.

The Best General Spring Self Care Ideas

PSA: Spring self-care doesn’t need to be complex. Below are 11 ideas Dr. Alex swears by for all-around spring wellness.

Meditation

Daily meditation practice helps calm the mind, reduce stress, and increase self-awareness. Just 10-15 minutes a day can make a significant difference in your mental and emotional well-being.

Gratitude Journaling

Cultivate an attitude of gratitude by maintaining a daily journal. Reflect on and jot down at least three things you’re grateful for each day to foster a more positive mindset and improve overall happiness.

Aromatherapy

Incorporate aromatherapy into your daily routine to help balance emotions and promote relaxation. Use essential oils like lavender, chamomile, and bergamot to reduce stress and anxiety.

Forest Bathing

Spend time in nature and practice forest bathing or “Shinrin-yoku,” a Japanese wellness ritual that involves immersing oneself in the forest atmosphere. This practice can help lower stress levels, boost mood, and improve overall well-being.

Regular Massage

Treat yourself to regular massages to release muscle tension, improve circulation, and promote relaxation. Massages can also help alleviate stress, anxiety, and improve sleep quality.

Float Therapy

Try float therapy, a unique sensory deprivation experience that allows you to float effortlessly in an epsom salt tank, free from external stimuli. This practice can help reduce stress, ease muscle tension, and encourage deep relaxation.

Acupuncture

Consider acupuncture. It can help alleviate stress, pain, and improve overall well-being.

Sauna Sessions

Incorporate regular sauna sessions into your wellness routine to detoxify the body, boost circulation, and promote relaxation. The heat from saunas can help alleviate muscle tension, improve sleep quality, and support overall health.

Gardening

Engage in gardening as a therapeutic and grounding activity that connects you with nature. Tending to your plants and nurturing their growth can reduce stress, promote relaxation, and provide a sense of accomplishment. Plus, you can enjoy the fruits (or vegetables) of your labor!

Time with Friends

Prioritize spending quality time with friends to strengthen social connections and enhance emotional well-being. Sharing laughter, conversations, and experiences with loved ones can boost your mood, reduce stress, and create lasting memories.

IV Vitamin Therapy

Consider trying IV vitamin therapy, a wellness treatment that delivers essential vitamins, minerals, and amino acids directly into your bloodstream for optimal absorption. This therapy can help improve skin health, boost energy levels, and support overall well-being from the inside out.

Tips for Maintaining Skin Health in Spring

As a board-certified dermatologist, Dr. Daniel knows a thing or two about keeping your skin glowy and hydrated all season long. Keep reading for his top tips and product faves.

Exfoliate Regularly

As the weather warms up, it’s essential to exfoliate your skin gently to remove dead cells and reveal a fresh, glowing complexion. Opt for a gentle scrub or a natural botanical exfoliant to keep your skin looking radiant and smooth.

Update Your Moisturizer

Switch to a lighter moisturizer during spring to provide hydration without feeling too heavy on the skin. Look for a formula that contains hyaluronic acid and one that works with your skin’s own microbiome for optimal hydration and a lightweight texture.

Sunscreen Protection

Sunscreen is a must-have in every skincare routine, regardless of the season. Choose a broad-spectrum chemical-free sunscreen with at least SPF 40 to protect your skin from harmful UVA and UVB rays, and remember to reapply throughout the day. I also recommend using regular lip sunscreen.

My favorites:

Up the Antioxidants

Incorporate antioxidant serums, such as those containing vitamin C, into your skincare regimen to protect your skin from environmental damage, brighten your complexion, and promote collagen production.

Hydrate from Within

Beauty starts from the inside out, so make sure to drink plenty of water and consume a balanced diet rich in fruits, vegetables, healthy fats, collagen, bone broth, and electrolytes. Staying well-hydrated and nourishing your body with the right nutrients will help maintain glowing, healthy skin.