7 Easy Spring Tips

Culture

Apr 3, 2015

1989

The sun is shining, the skies are now clear and blue and spring seems to have officially made its entrance. We’re finally back to the weather we love and with the new season ringing in, it’s only fitting we start thinking about how we’re actually going to enjoy it. So here’s our Spring Tips List that’ll get you in the mood for spring and preparing for summer that follows!

Spring Cleaning

Of course, spring cleaning was bound to make our list. Sure, it’s cliche, but it’s essential to kicking off a new season with a refreshing sense of clarity. And the only way to do that is to declutter your life – this can be your home, your life in general or both! Spring is the time to say, “Out with the old, in with the new.” While it can be a challenging task, it’s simply a must. It may even be worth it to take spring cleaning a step further and try redecorating your space. Switching things up is always a good way to feel refreshed and renewed. Kick the drab of winter out, and invite in peace, cleanliness and good vibes. If you’re looking to do some serious redecorating, Interior Designer John Toole is your man.

The Summer Body

Who doesn’t want that dream summer body? I surely do, and the closer it gets to summer, the more I seem to talk about getting into shape versus actually doing it. Before you know it, June will be introducing yet another season, spring will be in the past and some of us may still be all talk. So here’s a tip: use the spring season to get in shape and by summer, you can see impressive changes. Now, of course there are tons of ways to do this, so many may be wondering where to start.

During spring time, the temperatures are perfect (not quite too hot yet), the sun is out and the skies above are clear – why not be active in a creative way that feels more like fun than your ordinary workout? For instance, if you love biking, try Austin’s Queer Ride, a weekly bike social for queer folks and allies. Each week, riders meet up for a 10-15 mile ride throughout parts of Austin. Biking, on a weekly basis or regular basis, is not just a way to get in a workout, but also a cool way to explore the city and sights of Austin. But for those who prefer a more traditional workout place, here are some tips: 5 Ways To Stay Fit.

Change Up That Wardrobe

This one’s similar to spring cleaning, but more of a treat, especially for the shoppers out there. Again, this is the time of year to say, “Out with the old, in with the new.” Use this time to try something different with your style. Buy shirts, shorts or even brands you don’t normally wear. Remember, everyone is coming out of hibernation and flooding the streets because of the awesome spring weather. So step out of your shell with a new and improved look.

It’s always good to change things up and if all else fails, you can just go back to what you feel most comfortable in. Here’s a tip: try to purchase at least one item you wouldn’t normally buy the next time you’re out shopping. Step out of your comfort zone and see what happens, see how it feels… it may feel great! For a few ideas, check out our SXSW fashion tips, where our fashion writer offers great looks for spring. You can even get inspiration from the upcoming Austin Fashion Week (find out how you can win tickets to Austin Fashion Week events here).

Start Thinking About Mom

One of the most celebrated holidays of spring besides Easter is Mother’s Day. And somehow it seems many still forget about it until Mother’s Day weekend suddenly creeps up on us. Let’s not forget this year, and instead, start thinking about mom now. The earlier you start planning the perfect gift or outing for mom, the better things may pan out. If you don’t have a clue where to start looking, check out our Mother’s Day Gift Guide – it may spark some ideas.

Summer Vacation

Looking ahead, looking ahead. Some people plan their summer trips far in advance and others, like me, just hop in a car or on a flight and go. Either way, a few suggestions are always helpful when deciding where you want to spend your lovely week of vacation.

Montreal Skyline – Photo by Andrew Collins

Those who like road trips, cool places like Marfa and New Orleans (only approximately 7/8 hr. drives) are always spots you can’t go wrong with. For a more extended road trip, look into places like Denver – it’s become a hot tourist spot. If you’re looking to go all out for a memorable vacation of a lifetime, places like Tokyo and Montreal are beautiful to visit. No matter what place appeals to you most, it doesn’t hurt to start thinking about your summer plans now.

Spring Time Playlist

You can’t enjoy spring without those spring time tunes. Spring tunes are pretty similar to summer jams, songs that you can play with your top down (or windows down) and the sun kissing your skin. These songs just make you feel good and something about the spring time weather amplifies that feeling. So start putting together your spring playlist, your go-to songs for the spring time. It’s definitely worth it to check out Gina Chavez’s Siete-D and Serafia’s Waterfall. A little bit of Perfume Genius and St. Vincent won’t hurt either.

Get Out & About

Most importantly, get out of the house during spring. Whether you choose to hit Zilker Park or Alamo Drafthouse, enjoy your city because Austin is an amazing place to experience the spring season. Here are a few events we suggest: