When spring appears we melt into it immediately. It's always a long wait through winter, and we want to get out into the sun like yesterday. There's nothing better than seeing the longer days and feeling the warmth that comes along with it. We're here to remind you (gently!) to remember that slowing your roll starts NOW for the seasonal shifts that are coming.
With the days getting longer, it's time to sort through your cover-up collection. Make sure you have plenty of thin scarves and light shirts that you can throw on in traffic or while waiting in line for that delicious food truck. This time of year, the sun doesn't feel as strong, but it can still pack a punch for exposed skin that hasn't seen the light of day in months. Don't forget to apply some serum before you head out the door, too. The antioxidants, fats and other groovy ingredients will protect your skin's moisture barrier so you don't lose...
Water! Don't forget to drink water, especially with flu season running rampant. Aim for your 64 oz every day and make sure you're adding minerals if you're drinking overpurified water. You can also eat delicious fruits like melon and vegetables like cucumber to supplement your daily water intake. The easily accessible vitamins, minerals and electrolytes in watery fruits and vegetables are a boon to digestive systems that are used to synthetic additives.
Check your air filters. A long winter of running the heat can clog up your filters with innumerable things. If your skin feels dry and irritated indoors, chances are you may have dirty air. Spring is the time to check and make sure that your cleaning chemicals are doing their best job for your skin, as well. Stock up on gloves and other protective items to make sure your hands and arms aren't exposed.
With the new season, your body will need more energy. Feed its needs with whole foods: fruits, vegetables, nuts, and legumes. Now is the time to take the resolutions you made in January and start to apply them. Our bodies are coming out of hibernation, too, and the longer days will mean increased energy--make sure you keep up so you don't wear down.
KOREAN SPICY CUCUMBER SALAD
Ingredients
1 inch leek, minced (about 1 tablespoon)
1 clove garlic, minced (about 1 tablespoon)
1 tablespoon fine red pepper powder
1 tablespoon sugar
1 tablespoon rice wine vinegar
dash soy sauce
1/2 cucumber, thinly sliced
salt, to taste
pinch sesame seeds
pepper, to taste
1. In a bowl, combine leeks, garlic, red pepper powder, sugar, rice wine vinegar, and soy sauce; whisk thoroughly. This sauce can be prepared in advance and stored.
2. Place cucumber in a bowl and sprinkle with salt; let stand 10 minutes. Wrap the cucumber in a dry towel and squeeze out excess water.
3. Pour sauce over cucumber; toss to coat. Sprinkle with sesame seeds, then season with salt and pepper.
ENJOY THESE TIPS AND THE SEASON! XO, THE SSB CREW.