Lately, the sun’s been lingering a little longer in the evenings. The mornings still have that bite of cold, but there’s something different in the air—like the world is exhaling after a long winter. I’ve been cracking the window just a bit while I make breakfast, and it smells like new things are coming.

I always feel a little awkward in this in-between season. Like I want to leap into spring, but my body’s still in winter mode. And honestly, I think that’s okay. We weren’t meant to bloom all at once.

This year, I’m not making any big spring declarations or overhauling my routines. I just want to live a little softer. Let more fresh air in. Pay attention. Cook with what’s in season. Take longer walks. Clean, but not obsessively—just enough to make things feel lighter again.

I thought I’d share a few things I’m doing (or thinking about doing) to welcome spring slowly:

Simple Ways I’m Easing Into Spring:

1. Clearing a little, not everything
I’m not deep-cleaning the whole house, but I did open the windows and wash the curtains. It made the whole kitchen feel new. I might tackle the pantry next.

2. Drinking lighter teas
I’ve swapped my spiced winter blends for lemon balm, nettle, and floral mixes. Something about them feels fresh and energizing in the best way.

3. Gathering seeds
I don’t even know where everything’s going yet, but I’ve been collecting packets of herbs and vegetables, just tucking them into a bowl like a promise.

4. Moving more
Not in a forced way—just letting myself go outside more. Stretching. Walking with no agenda. Breathing in cold air with a little warmth in it.

5. Making soft plans
Planning for the garden. Thinking about light meals. Dreaming about what I want this spring to feel like, not just what I want to do.

If You’re in the Mood to Start Something…

• Write down 3 little things that made you feel good last spring.
• Make a fresh spring playlist (I’ve been collecting some soft ones—might share soon).
• Wash something by hand—your favorite mug, a cardigan, a tea towel. It’s silly how grounding it feels.
• Open your windows while you tidy up, even if it’s cold.

I think the best part of spring is that it reminds us how gentle growth can be. We don’t have to rush into blooming. We can stretch slowly. Wake up slowly. Return to ourselves, one small thing at a time.

If you’re feeling stuck or still sleepy from winter, you’re not behind. You’re right on time.

I put together a gentle, one-page printable to go along with this post. A little seasonal companion to help you welcome spring in your own time and way. It includes a short checklist of soft rituals and a few quiet prompts to help you move into the new season more mindfully.

You can print it out, tuck it into your journal, or pin it somewhere cozy as a reminder to slow down and start soft.

—Autumn