After being locked in all winter, we can finally return outside and pull our shorts from the darkest corner of our closets. Flowers are blooming and there's more and more daylight each day. With so much to do, we can easily forget to take time for ourselves. Despite how hectic it may be, it's always worth taking the time out to check in with our mental, physical, and even spiritual needs. Even if that means not going to that event, or spending some extra cash, don't think of it as being selfish. By actively taking care of yourself, you can offer your family, friends, and anyone you encounter so much more. Not to mention, you'll feel a million times better.

Through self-care, you can become the best version of yourself. The top excuses for ditching self-care seem to be because we are too busy or too tired. However, taking care of ourselves does not need to be a long walk on the beach or a week-long meditation retreat. (Although both of those sound fantastic!) Some routines can take just five minutes! Self-care is something we should practice every season no matter how busy we are.

Here are 15 spring self-care routines to help you feel amazing this season:

1. Grow a plant.

Nothing illustrates spring more vividly than flowers. Taking care of a living creature and overseeing it thrive is a powerful feeling, and you'll also be rewarded with beautiful sights and scents in your home or garden.

2. Visit the park.

There's no better way to get in touch with nature than by visiting a park. It can be your favorite spot or a new haunt.

3. Meditate or practice yoga.

Meditating for even just five minutes could have a profound effect on your body. A few minutes a day will add up with time to relax and soothe you.

4. Unplug.

It's no secret that social media can have a negative impact on our mental health. Even though we feel the need to compulsively check our feed, ditching our phones can do so much good and allow us to connect with the outside world.

5. Eat your favorite meal.

Sometimes our schedules force us to order take-out or opt to cook something simple. Spice up your culinary routine and refresh your taste buds with your favorite meal. Making it yourself gives even more satisfaction as it's something which you've accomplished!

6. Admire the little things.

It's so easy to overlook the simple pleasantries that always seem to be there. Take a step back to admire something new about someone, a tree on your way to work, or even a bird hopping around in the sun.

7. Clean.

Yes, I said it; spring cleaning. Even though it's a chore, the end result is incredibly satisfying. With less clutter, you'll find being at home to be much more calming and you'll be able to think more clearly.

8. Go to the beach.

It may not be warm enough to break out the swimwear, but there's something so soothing about the way waves crash and how the sand feels with each step.

9. Laugh.

Children always seem to pencil laughter in their day with ease. Why let them have all the fun?

10. Spa night.

No need to spend your paycheck at to the salon or spa; you can do it all at home! Grab nail polish, a face mask, and your best friend.

11. Call someone you love.

Rather than sending a text, give the person you have in mind a call! Surely they will be happy to hear from you and you'll both have a break from the tribulations of the day. Plus, a reminder that you can reach someone you love with the click of a button is always reassuring.

12. Go for a walk.

All you need are a comfortable pair of shoes. It's a simple practice, but you may find your mind more and more at ease with each step.

13. Sleep in.

After a long week, your body will thank you. Even better if you don't have to set an alarm.

14. Listen to a song that will make you nostalgic.

An old song you love will surely improve your mood and bring back fond memories.

15. Write.

Whether you are journaling, writing fiction, or poetry, jotting down your thoughts, it will be totally therapeutic.