Simple Indulgences for March

Here is a series of simple, quick, and affordable indulgences to nhelp you slow down and enjoy this season of beauty and transition. nn* Welcome spring. Whether or not the temperatures are beginning to nwarm in your part of the world, take a walk, paying particular nattention to the little signs that a new season is on its way. nn* Stop by your local cosmetics counter for a sample of a nfresh floral perfume. nn* Browse the library or online bookstores for a "beach book," nan absorbing story you can enjoy without a whole lot of thought. nn* Buy a racy new bra.nn* Light a scented candle in the room where you spend most of your time. nWhenever you need a mini-break, allow the aroma nto carry you to a more relaxing and peaceful place.nn* Ask your best friends, "What is your all-time favorite movie?" nTake their suggestions to the video rental store and plan a nmovie and popcorn night with the family. nn* Are there people in your life who rob you of energy or make nyou feel bad about yourself? Many of us cling to relationships nthat we have outgrown or that are just no longer good for us. nGive yourself permission to focus on those relationships that ntruly support and nourish you. nn* For 15 minutes, go back to bed. It's the ultimate indulgence nduring a hectic week. Burrow under the covers and enjoy the ncomfort of your sheets and blankets. nn* Keep a running list of quotes from your kids that crack you up. n(Keep it in the kitchen so it's always available to add to--and to look nback on.) nn* Send flowers to someone. A colleague, a neighbor, your mother-in-law... nor yourself. nn* Create your own coffee bar. Purchase beans from your favorite ncoffee house. Splurge on a few syrups and whipped cream, if you nlike. Invite over a few friends. nn* Pick up a glamorous pair of sunglasses. Put them on when you nneed a little lift. Just for a moment, pretend to be someone nyou're not. nn* Buy something small that makes you feel cherished: fresh nblackberries, homemade oatmeal soap, a silk eye pillow. nn* Make a soothing foot scrub. Combine equal parts Epsom salts, nbaking soda, table salt, and water. Don't forget a few drops of nyour favorite essential oil. Rub into your feet, sloughing away nthe rough spots and preparing for this season's sexy, strappy nsandals. nn* Create a running gratitude list for the area of your life nthat is the bumpiest. Whether it's your kids, your spouse, or nyour career, make a point to add to the list daily and so keep nmindful of your blessings. nn* Enjoy the spring air by hopping on your bicycle and taking a nride all by yourself. nn* This time of year, many of us feel stuck in a routine. When nfaced with a choice today, make a deliberate attempt to choose nsomething different. Whether you eat something new for lunch or nexercise on the bike instead of the Stairmaster, a habit of ntrying new things will help remind you that life presents a lot of noptions. nn* Remind yourself that spring is on its way with aromatherapy. nChoose a scented candle, essential oil or aromatherapy inhaler nin an energizing spring scent: lemon, basil, bergamot, sweet norange, peppermint, eucalyptus, tangerine, or any floral blend. nn* Think of your own small indulgences, and continue to enjoy none each day. n