Step outside for additional exercise endorphins
Coming from someone who craves dopamine, spring is undeniably the optimal season for engaging in outdoor physical activity. The key to forming a habit, much like any habit, is to begin with small steps and minimize obstacles. Plan your attire and ensure your phone is charged before bedtime. Initially, focus on simply getting up and out the door without stressing about distance, pace, or completing a full workout. Surprisingly, avoiding dressing like a professional athlete can be beneficial. Opting for less athletic attire allows for flexibility, such as stopping for a coffee mid-activity. Keep it fun, appreciate your body’s capabilities, whether it’s doing step-ups on a bench, pull-ups on a tree branch, or just picking up the pace when a favorite song plays. The euphoric rush of endorphins will linger in your memory, motivating you for future outings. Also, don’t underestimate the impact of a well-crafted playlist. Many mornings when I lacked motivation, a playlist rejuvenated my spirits. Joel Snape, fitness writer
Cultivate sweet peas and perennial herbaceous plants for a stunning, floral summer
For less than five pounds, you can acquire a couple of packets of sweet peas: simply sow them directly into the ground in a sunny location near a trellis or obelisk. From June to late summer, you’ll relish armfuls of fragrant flowers either in your garden or as indoor decorations. I particularly adore the maroon and purple “Matucana” variety. While most sweet peas last only a year, consider planting a perennial type like Lathyrus latifolius for recurring displays. If purchasing plants, opt for hardy herbaceous perennials instead of seasonal bedding, promoting sustainability. These plants can thrive in the ground or in spacious containers, re-emerging each spring after their foliage vanishes in winter. For dry, sunny gardens, consider day lilies (hemerocallis), ice plants (hylotelephium), and agapanthus. In shady areas, astrantia, bee balm (monarda), and hardy geraniums are excellent choices. Jane Perrone
Elevate your spring style with a chic belt
It’s challenging to think of a wardrobe item universally present, regardless of age or gender, but the trusty belt fits the bill. Whether forgotten in the depths of your closet or a regular accessory, a belt can instantly refresh your look for spring. Pair it with oversized dresses or suits to breathe new life into your attire. Dust off a coin belt from the early 2000s and wear it with jeans or a ruffled dress for an instant style boost. Experimenting with a belt over a jacket can also inject freshness into your outfit. Regardless of trends, a belt serves as a versatile tool to add a touch of sophistication. Everything else in your ensemble may be casual, but a belt, be it wide or skinny, will tie it all together. Ellie Bramley, Guardian acting fashion and lifestyle editor
Unleash your creativity with a paintbrush and embrace natural light
Common wisdom suggests avoiding painting walls in cold weather, but unless you’re painting in the nude, spring is an ideal time for a home refresh. The abundance of natural light offers a clearer perspective on paint colors and tones. Placing a tester patch in the middle of a wall may yield misleading results, as colors can appear different when bouncing off each other. Consider painting a corner to observe how the color interacts with the entire room. While trends are secondary, blue-green tones are currently in vogue, exuding richness and storytelling elements that create a comforting home environment. Laurence Llewelyn-Bowen, interior designer and TV presenter (as told to Leah Harper)
Revitalize your senses with a plunge into cold water
The essence of cold water swimming lies not in the cold or the act of swimming but in the water itself, especially during spring. What better time to immerse yourself in nature than now, with warming waters, blossoming surroundings, and adorable ducklings? Choose a location that excites you, whether a river, pond, or the sea. Ensure you have a clear exit strategy before entering the water. Embrace the sensations of cold, shock, and invigoration, relishing the experience rather than fearing it. While neoprene gear can provide comfort, don’t be intimidated by others’ equipment. Wear a bright hat for visibility and always have a Thermos ready for post-swim warmth. Nell Frizzell, writer and swimming enthusiast
Delight in the first harvest of jersey royals
The arrival of jersey royals on supermarket shelves heralds the onset of spring. These early “new” potatoes, renowned for their distinct flavor, require minimal preparation to enjoy their best taste. Simply rinse off the mud, steam until tender, and toss in butter or oil with a sprinkle of salt for a delectable treat. Keep accompaniments simple—a handful of fresh herbs or a dollop of salsa verde can elevate the dish. Felicity Cloake, food writer
Transition from Dry January to a sober spring
Transitioning from Dry January to a sober spring can be more manageable in the springtime, with longer days and pleasant weather to distract from alcohol cravings. The expanding range of alcohol-free beverages offers more choices for social outings. Consider joining an online alcohol-free community for support and insights on the benefits of sobriety. Engage in new hobbies, sports, or brunch meetups to replace evening socializing centered around alcohol. Matt Pink, sobriety expert and founder of (as told to Lizzie Cernik)
Embrace the transformative power of blusher
Blusher, a transformative makeup item, can uplift your complexion and shed the dullness of winter. Opt for a cream blush for ease of application and blend it onto the apples of your cheeks for a natural glow. Brands like Saie, Westman Atelier, Ateh Jewel Beauty, and Ilia offer sublime textures that glide effortlessly onto the skin. The best part? No brush required. Funmi Fetto, contributing beauty editor for Vogue
Infuse your living space with spring vibrance
Spring presents an ideal opportunity to infuse your living space with vibrant colors, from bright yellows to soft pastel tones. Incorporate color through paint, wallpaper, and soft furnishings to rejuvenate your home swiftly. Consider wallpaper featuring pastel gingham, spring florals, or fresh stripes for striking feature walls. Experiment with paint effects like stripes on furniture to add a playful touch. Embrace the return of scallops, adding a rustic charm to your decor. For a personalized touch, consider adding gingham frills to cushions, curtains, or tableware for a delightful spring upgrade. Siobhan Murphy, interior designer and stylist
Discover the joy of fiction this spring
Books can set the tone for the spring season, offering a fresh perspective and new beginnings. Consider exploring titles like Corey Keyes’ , which emphasizes finding meaning and community over the pursuit of happiness. In fiction, immerse yourself in Ann Patchett’s , a tale set in a family orchard during the pandemic spring of 2020. Alternatively, delve into by Durian Sukegawa, a story that captures the essence of renewal and joy associated with spring. Ella Creamer, Guardian books reporter
Refresh your houseplants with a spring shower
Just as you crave a fresh start in spring, your houseplants deserve a rejuvenating experience. Take advantage of the warmer weather to give your plants an outdoor shower, revitalizing their appearance. Repotting is ideal during this active growth phase, providing new nutrients to support spring growth. If repotting isn’t necessary, consider refreshing the top layer of soil with new compost for a nutrient boost. Alys Fowler, gardener and Guardian columnist
Prioritize sun protection as spring approaches
As spring brings more sunlight after a period of limited exposure, it’s crucial to prioritize sun protection. Opt for sunscreen with a minimum SPF 50 to shield against UVA and UVB rays, irrespective of your skin tone. For sensitive skin, avoid sunscreens containing titanium oxide and oxybenzone, opting instead for products with hydrating hyaluronic acid or gentle zinc oxide. Children may prefer spray sunscreens for easier application, but ensure thorough coverage on all exposed areas. Darker skin tones can opt for tinted or clear sunscreens to avoid white residue. Veerpal Sandhu, clinical pharmacist and founder of (as told to LC)
Venture out and start ticking off your new year’s resolutions
With brighter evenings and blossoming surroundings, it’s time to breathe life into the resolutions you set in January. Swap cozy nights in for concerts, reignite group chats to plan outings, and explore local events. Support local eateries by trying new restaurants and embrace the blooming gardens and vibrant outdoor spaces. Spring signals a fresh start—step out of your comfort zone and embrace new experiences. Emma Gannon, author, novelist, and host of the creative careers podcast Ctrl Alt Delete
Rejuvenate your spirit with a springtime playlist
Refresh your playlist with tunes that capture the essence of spring blossoming. Consider albums like Rafael Toral’s Spectral Evolution, which evokes the intricate beauty of nature unfolding. For a serene and radiant vibe, Waxahatchee’s offers a content yet luminous Americana sound reminiscent of Lucinda Williams. Explore new creative horizons with Kim Gordon’s , a bold and transformative release that signifies artistic renewal. Laura Snapes, Guardian deputy music editor
Embrace connections and opportunities this spring
While spring energizes some individuals, others may feel overwhelmed by societal expectations. Allow yourself the time and space you need, but if you thrive in the spring, seize the chance to connect with others. Whether through social gatherings, volunteering, or outdoor activities, embrace opportunities to engage with the world around you. Spending time in nature can boost your mental well-being, even a brief stroll in a local woodland can work wonders. Consider outdoor walk-and-talk therapy as a supportive option for mental health. Psychotherapist (as told to LC)
Embark on a language learning journey this spring
Dreaming of mastering a new language? Spring provides the perfect backdrop to kickstart your language learning journey. With approximately 100 days until summer, commit to a learning schedule to grasp the basics of your target language. Consistency is key—dedicate time daily to practice and reinforce your language skills. Utilize apps like Duolingo as a foundation and supplement your learning with podcasts, films, and TV shows in the target language. Engage a patient friend or family member for speaking practice to immerse yourself further. Mabel Banfield-Nwachi, Guardian news reporter
Spring clean your finances for a fresh start
The onset of the financial year in April marks an ideal time to declutter and revamp your finances. Begin by reviewing your monthly outgoings, trimming unnecessary expenses, and redirecting savings into a dedicated account. Evaluate your banking and investment choices to align with your values and ethics. Consider switching to ethical banking institutions that resonate with your principles. A simple switch to a new account can make a significant impact. Donna Ferguson, freelance journalist