With Earth Day right around the corner, it’s the perfect time to shake off the winter cobwebs, spend some time with Mother Nature, and give a little love back to the planet we call home. If you’ve been feeling frozen in the winter blues, might I introduce you to something I now swear by: my Spring Defrosting Routine—a fun little mental and physical reset that combines unplugging, reconnecting, and being very intentional about soaking up nature’s magic.
This year’s reset was powered by a getaway to Postcard Cabins St. Francois, just 45 minutes outside of St. Louis. These off-the-grid cabins are designed for unplugging, unwinding, and gently reminding yourself that yes, you are a human being and not a hibernating squirrel.
Step 1: You’ve Got to Get Out of the House
Seriously. Put on your shoes. I packed up a few groceries I already had (bonus points for avoiding food waste), grabbed the dog, and hit the road to Postcard Cabins St. Francis.
No overplanning, no complicated logistics. Just toss a few cozy essentials in a tote and go. The cabin was already loaded with essentials like hair and body care, dishes, cooking utensils, and even some tasty provisions for sale like coffee and s’mores kits.
Sometimes the best thing you can do for your brain (and your carbon footprint) is a local escape instead of hopping on a flight.
Step 2: Unplug
Your brain is begging you for a rest.
We literally put our phones in “phone jail.” That’s my affectionate name for the cell phone lock box provided in every cabin. It’s a cute little wooden box where your tech goes to nap while you reconnect with your surroundings.
Trust me, it’s not as scary as it sounds—especially once your brain starts quieting down. No notifications. No doomscrolling. Just birdsong, your thoughts, and maybe the crackle of a fire.
Step 3: Reconnect With Nature (She Misses You!)
Once we were fully unplugged, it was time to go outside. Nothing extreme—a simple, peaceful 1-mile hike nearby was all I needed.
Slow walking only. Big tree appreciation required. I took this time to walk with the intention of savoring everything around me.
Earth Day is a reminder that we are nature, not separate from it. Spending even a little bit of intentional time outdoors helps us rebuild that bond and reminds us why protecting our planet matters so much.
Step 4: Make ONE Goal
Here’s where I don’t tell you to overhaul your life. Instead, choose just one thing that would make this new season feel aligned, joyful, or intentional.
Big life changes are built on tiny choices, and one meaningful goal is more sustainable (and less overwhelming) than a whole personality makeover.
Step 5: Hobby Like It’s Your Job
Whether it’s watercoloring, reading, journaling, or just doing absolutely nothing with great flair, let yourself get cozy and play.
Giving yourself permission to rest, reset, and embrace slow joy is revolutionary in a world that thrives on hustle. Bonus: it’s also better for the planet. Slowing down means consuming less, wasting less, and appreciating more.
This reset is like spring cleaning, but for your spirit—and way more fun than organizing your junk drawer.
And hey, Earth Day is the perfect excuse to unplug, explore, and remember how much this beautiful planet gives us every day.
Follow Alyssa @newlifestyleabb for year-round tips on soaking up more nature in your everyday life. 🌿