If your energy is seriously lagging following a particularly dreary winter, you'll need to undertake a few drastic measures to ensure you're ready to meet the new season in optimum shape. Pack up your galoshes, pull out your cocktail frocks and check out these 10 tips to refresh for summer.
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Ten tips for ultimate summer refreshment:
1. Spring clean
Psychologists say a cluttered home is reflective of a cluttered mind. Don't let it be yours! Take a full weekend to spring clean your home — throw out old books, shoes and appliances. Buy a few new pieces like scented candles and replace cushions covers. Open your doors and windows and let the wind chase out the old energy.
2. Read a book that inspires you
Refresh your intellect by delving into a book you've long wanted to read. If you don't have one, ask around — it's a great conversation starter.
Get physical | Get sensual
3. Review your wardrobe
Like a spring clean, a review of your wardrobe will a long way to making you feel new again. Be ruthless. Do you feel comfortable in the garment? Does it make you look fabulous? If not — fast track it to Vinnie's (including anything not worn in the last 18 months).
4. Make peace with others
Though it may seem otherwise, life is short. Pick an evening to stay home and make a list of the relationships in your life that have hit a bumpy patch and reflect upon why. If you feel in your heart that you want to fix the issue, do. Think carefully of what you want to say (write it down), then pick up the phone.
5. Have your make-up done
"The most beautiful make-up of a woman is passion. But cosmetics are easier to buy." So said Yves Saint-Laurent . And while passion is something we all own in various quantities, nothing beats a kick-ass lipstick. Book yourself a makeover with a professional to create a look that compliments your colouring and style. Buy a few new cosmetics to add to your make-up bag — wear them!
6. Get fit
Bikini season is here, but that's not the only reason why you should tackle fitness with great enthusiasm. Being physically fit will go a long way to supporting a positive mental state — and nothing feels better than that. Make three fitness dates with yourself each week — and keep them. Your body and your mind will love you for it.
7. Practise creative visualisation
Anytime, anywhere — you can reclaim and renew your own energy using creative visualisation techniques. It's a secret that athletes, actors and many politicians already know. All you have to do is take yourself away somewhere quiet, close your eyes and visualise something uplifting and energising. Try imagining a shimmering golden sun above you. Allow it to magnetically touch and restore your energy (imagining rays of warm golden light streaming into your mind and your heart). Breathe.
8. Eat well
In modern times, there is no reason why you cannot eat well — easily. Ensure you have a fruit bowl at home and try to eat at least one piece a day (three is better!). Switch to low fat and organic foods and make a conscious move away from highly processed foods. Give up sugar. Always carry a water bottle.
9. Spa indulgence
Take time out to pamper your body. Try an intense facial package or a bright pedi/mani combo from your local beautician. If your budget is tight, take a trip to your local pharmacy and buy beauty stock on sale for a home beauty session (ask your girlfriends over!)
10. Take up yoga, Pilates or meditation
Like creative visualisation, regular yoga, pilates or meditation can go a long way to balancing your emotions and thought processes. If you haven't tried already, sign up for a free introductory class.
