Spring Into Action With a Spring Reset
- Ashleigh Caradas
- Sep 1
- 3 min read
Spring has finally arrived in South Africa, and we are bursting with sunshine, blooms, and longer days. After months of winter comfort food, hibernation habits, and dark mornings, now is the perfect time to give your body, mind, and home a gentle reset. Think of this as spring cleaning for your entire lifestyle and a chance to shake off sluggishness, boost your energy, and feel lighter, brighter, and more vibrant.
I often encourage my clients to use seasonal transitions as a natural checkpoint for their health. Spring offers the perfect opportunity to refresh your eating habits, get moving, and create a healthier daily rhythm. Here’s how you can embrace a simple, sustainable “spring detox” without restrictive diets or quick fixes.
1. Eat Fresh, Raw, and Seasonal
Spring is all about abundance, so take advantage of South Africa’s beautiful seasonal produce. Fill your plate with colourful raw fruits and vegetables like crisp cucumbers, juicy berries, leafy greens, and crunchy carrots. Raw produce is naturally rich in antioxidants, enzymes, and fibre to support digestion and help your body’s natural detox pathways.
Tips:
Make salads your new staple — try adding fresh herbs, avocado, nuts, and seeds for variety.
Snack on fresh fruit or veggie sticks with hummus instead of processed snacks.
Explore local farmers’ markets for inspiration and fresher produce.
2. Sweat It Out
Detox isn’t just about what you eat — it’s also about how you move. Sweating through exercise or even a sauna session can help improve circulation, reduce water retention, and boost your mood.
Ideas to get started:
Take brisk walks or enjoy the many hiking spots that cities like Cape Town, Johannesburg, Pretoria, Durban and beyond have to offer
Add two or three strength-training or yoga sessions per week to build energy and tone. Try going to "hot" classes for an extra sweat
Treat yourself to a sauna or steam session for relaxation and an extra detox boost.
3. Spring Clean Your Space
A cluttered environment can make you feel mentally heavy. Spring cleaning is a great way to create a healthier home and mind. Decluttering also encourages better food choices when your fridge and pantry are organised.
Try this:
Clear out your pantry and donate unused processed foods.
Stock up on fresh ingredients, whole grains, and healthy snacks.
Deep-clean your kitchen, bedroom, and workspace for a “fresh start” feeling.
4. Prioritise Sleep Hygiene
The longer days of spring can tempt us to stay up later, but a good night’s sleep is essential for hormone balance, weight management, and mental health.
Sleep tips:
Create a calming bedtime routine with herbal tea, gentle stretches, and no screens 30 minutes before bed.
Keep your bedroom cool and clutter-free.
Aim for 7–9 hours of consistent, quality sleep each night.
5. Hydrate and Simplify
One of the easiest ways to feel refreshed is to drink more water. Add slices of lemon, mint, or cucumber for a natural flavor boost. Pair hydration with lighter meals and mindful eating to feel energized without feeling deprived.
Let Go of What’s Holding You Back
Spring is about renewal, which makes it the perfect season to let go of old habits and choices that no longer serve your health or happiness.
In your diet:
Cut back on refined sugar, fried foods, and frequent takeaways that leave you feeling sluggish.
Swap processed snacks for whole foods, and choose home-cooked meals over convenience foods.
In your lifestyle:
Consider reducing alcohol or quitting smoking to support your long-term wellness.
Take breaks from endless social media doom scrolling to protect your mental health.
Reflect on your daily habits — if something drains your energy, spring is the time to replace it with something nourishing.
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