Kate Mac Reveals Her Spring Refresh Routine
And just like that – the storage boxes are out and I’m packing away the jumpers! Well, it might be a tad early to pack away all the winter gear with the mornings still being rather crisp, but Spring is finally here! For some you have been preparing all winter, keeping up those exercise routines, eating well and continuing those healthy habits but for those who hibernate during winter it’s time to reemerge and that can be a little confronting. The weather is no longer an excuse to stay indoors so it’s time to shake things up, get outside and bounce your way into Spring but I am of no illusion that this is easy – I’ll let you in on a few truths about me.
Life can throw curve balls and cause setbacks; we all know that – and it was landing my dream job with Smoothfm! But breakfast radio with 2 little humans has certainly been a challenge. Since I can remember my routine has always been get up, exercise and then start your day and since landing the breakfast show host role that is no longer an option. Trying to shift my mindset and get moving after work has taken some time to adjust to just to. I’ve had all the excuses to shy away from my regular healthy habits – work, winter, sleep deprivation from the girls but also just plain mum guilt and finding it extremely hard to leave my little ones when they are so attached to me right now. Despite appearances, I have struggled to shake off winter and juggle life just like everyone else and it’s been a slow process, but I’ve managed to make steps to finally set myself up for Spring!
Spring in Perth is pure magic. It brings vibrant wildflowers, sunny days and perfect temperatures so the obvious thing to do is to get outside and breath it all in! Yes, moving your exercise to outdoor activities is a common tip but first, don’t underestimate the power of a ‘spring clean’. If you don’t quite know how to get started – look around you, start with your home and your mindset then the healthy habits will follow.
Refresh your Environment
Spring cleaning isn’t just about dusting and vacuuming. It’s also about creating a space that feels serene and organized. That said, it’s hard to find the motivation and time sometimes to get it done. There are some amazing services around Perth, where people can come and help you declutter and take back control of your space. My play area for the kids exploded and friend of mine recommended a toy sorting service. They are called Raise Toddlers Perth Raise Toddlers | Raising Happy Children and it was so simple. I sent them photos of the area, they purchased what they needed, cleared and sorted it all and gave me an easy toy rotation system. It was the best money I’ve spent and it’s also saved me from buying new toys, I just simply rotate them every week or so when I see the girls getting a bit bored of them.
Another service friends have used is Queens of Clutter (Decluttering home services Perth | Queens of Clutter | Decluttering WA) A lot of my friends work and juggle their families and are overwhelmed and the ones who have used this said this cleared their heads and enabled them to turn their focus to their health a bit more rather than constantly tyring to sort their house. Never be shamed to outsource on things like this, not all of us can be Marie Kondo! Once it’s been cleared, add some natural elements. Houseplants, fresh flowers, burn some essential oils and you will noticeably feel your mood lift and when you feel clearer and happier – that’s when the healthy habits organically come in.
Revitalise your exercise regime
We are creatures of habit but, we change our clothes when we change seasons, why not change our exercise regime too? The Gym is great when it’s cold and wet but there is plenty of backed research around the positive effects of being in nature. Get off the treadmill and get outside this spring! We are spoilt for choice when it comes to hikes and scenery in Perth so plan ahead– look at your weekends and book in a hike up in the hills for a change of pace, or even somewhere locally along the amazing coastline or river. There are some amazing kid friendly hikes around too! Some of my favourites to take my girls on are Law Walk in Kings Park, Children’s Forest in Whiteman Park and Lesmurdie falls, one of the most impressive waterfalls Perth has to offer – just looking at a waterfall can bring you so much peace as well.
The classic saying is ‘a change is a s good as a holiday’ but I think when it comes to exercise if something is working for you stick to what you enjoy but when you can – move it outdoors. If you enjoy workouts at home, take the mat outside, if you go to the gym make sure you do your cool down or stretch outside and take a second to feel the sun on your face. Sunlight boosts vitamin D levels and improves mood so aim for some sun exposure each day but remember to use sunscreen to protect your skin! All these little changes can make a big difference to your mindset. Nature really cures many things and Spring is the perfect season so get in touch with that.
Revise your Diet
Just as you would declutter your living space, it’s time to simplify and rejuvenate your body. Swap out heavier winter foods for lighter, nutrient-rich options. Incorporate more fresh fruits, vegetables, and whole grains. Seasonal produce like leafy greens, strawberries, and asparagus are not only delicious but packed with essential vitamins. Also, hydrate more! This is in every health blog for a reason! Increase your water intake to stay hydrated as the weather warms up. Proper hydration supports overall health, aids digestion, and keeps your skin glowing.
So, my basic method when it comes to moving into the warmer months as a mum and someone who values health and fitness simplified is this:
1. Clear your space and add light colours everywhere!
2. Buy some new active wear for motivation (Style Runner in Claremont quarter has some amazing new trends right now!)
3. Look at the fruits and vegetables in season and start to freshen the diet – a few more leafy greens and less potatoes perhaps.
4. Move your bodies outside or just get your bodies outside – very simply put just eat your lunch on the grass rather than the kitchen bench each day.
5. Connect with nature – this one is key in Spring be it a walk in a park, a long hike or a quick dip in the ocean I’ve never met anyone who regrets giving themselves a moment to be outside.
Let’s face it, Perth people are not born for cold weather. Spring is our time so start planning fun things, put the picnic rug and chairs in the back of the car and always be ready to make that switch from indoors to outdoors. Your body will love you for it!
