Put Some Spring in Your Step

I don’t know where you are hanging out right now, but here in the Midwest it seems everyone is singing the same song. Can’t wait for a little warm weather and sunshine. Even a heat wave of 50 degrees or so would be welcomed. And you definitely see more smiling faces when the sun is shining, which hasn’t happened a whole lot as of late.

There are a few things we can do to bolster some good energy in the dark, dreary months of winter. Glowing skin is always my go-to mood booster – and no, you do not have to hit the tanning beds. There are some truly terrific – and safe! – self-tanners on the market that leave you with a natural, healthy glow. Great place to start.

Working out is always good for your healthy, energy and self-esteem and setting goals now (before we’ve even seen the light of spring) is a great way to pump it up for warmer months. So hit the gym, get out your exercise ball or take the dog for a nice long walk. Even if you don’t feel like it, you will be amazed how great you’ll feel after.

Next up, a good shave! This may seem like a no-brainer, but I think sometimes in the pants-wearing season we tend to neglect that area of upkeep. So, next time you shower don’t forget those gams. Rather wax? Try MOOM sugar-based hair removal. This stuff is all natural (I am always tempted to lick it) and super easy to use. Just heat in the microwave (be sure not to get it too hot) and apply with a wooden applicator stick. Unwanted hair zips right off with a muslin strip. You can do your underarms and bikini area too, but I am not that brave. Please do share if you go there. We’d love your tips!

Try some scent. Our sense of smell can conjure up all kinds of reminders. Remember the scent you work in high school, or the one you wore on your wedding day? Well, it works for summer too. The one I wear year-round is the warm, sensuous scent of vanilla. This stuff never gets old and always reminds me of a beach….or at least the patio and a glass of lemonade.

Try these products to get some spring back in your step:

Lavera Self Tanner for face and body -- Both products are as easy to apply as putting on your usual face and body moisturizers.  No streaking or orange-ness.  I use this stuff year-round.  For best results exfoliate prior to use.

MOOM Hair Removal System -- Much easier to use than wax and is made up purely of natural ingredients.  Just heat, apply and strip.

Lavanila Pure Vanilla -- This intoxicating scent is perfect for invoking a little warmth into your senses.  And the light, natural aroma is perfect even for us scent-sensitive.

Image:  Marcos Vasconcelos Photography at Flickr.com, Creative Commons license.