After a long winter it's common to feel sluggish, worn out and less-than-sexy. But the start of a new season is the perfect time to get re-energized and make feeling great a priority. Not only does feeling sexy benefit your confidence, it goes a long way toward improving your relationship -- both in and out of the bedroom.

Feeling sexy starts with feeling confident, says lifestyle and nutrition counsellor Kassandra Monid. "A woman who is comfortable in her own skin is one of the sexiest things," she says. Monid shares her advice for how to feel great and love yourself this spring.

1. Get creative in the kitchen
When you cook, you act as a creator and a provider, and taking on these empowering positions invigorates your mind, body and soul.

"The whole act of cooking engages all your senses. Taste, touch, smell, sight, hearing -- it's a very sensual act," says Monid. "You're fully present in the moment and, especially if you're cooking for a loved one, your adrenaline is going, emotion is invested in the whole project and feel-good endorphins are there."

The anticipation associated with cooking tends to mimic the anticipation we feel in our dating lives, making it an activity we connect with feelings of romance and excitement, she explains. On your next date night, stay in and lose yourselves in the smells, tastes and textures of fresh spring fare. Spring is the peak season for rhubarb, new potatoes, artichokes and asparagus, all of which make wonderful additions to any entrée.

2. Revamp your bedroom
Your bedroom has the potential to be the most sensual space in your home. Start by removing any elements that you associate with work or stress and then filling it with things that make you feel at peace.

"First of all, no TV and no computers," says Monid. "The bedroom should only be used for two things: sleeping and sex. You want to create a warm, inviting, cosy environment."

Incorporating stimulating colours also helps create a warming space in your bedroom. "Red and orange accents like throw pillows create that whole inviting emotional response," Monid explains. "Red symbolizes life and energy, and studies have shown that it increases heart rate."

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3. Make your health a priority
Whether you enjoy getting your heart pumping by running on the treadmill, practising yoga or simply stretching every morning, regular exercise is critical for your health and energy levels. "When a woman feels strong and healthy and confident, she's naturally going to project a vibrant, sexy energy," says Monid. "People are attracted to her when she's physically and mentally at her best. This means things like exercising regularly, eating well and getting proper sleep."

Put your health first and you'll exude vibrant energy and feel better about yourself wherever you go.

4. Dress the part
Sending out a vivacious vibe tends to come more easily when you look the part. Flaunt your charisma by sporting a colour to match.

"When you're in a good mood, you're attracted to bright colours," says Monid. Orange is all about energy -- it's an attitude colour. It's a 'Hey, look at me' kind of colour. Red and orange are both very stimulating."

Even if your job requires you to appear reserved, try incorporating a bright accessory or piece of jewelry to create that glow. "If you can't afford a new outfit, buy a new lipstick. It's affordable and you can easily feel like a million bucks just by wearing a new colour," Monid says.

5. Treat yourself on the regular
Make a point of treating yourself to something that makes you feel good, such as a facial or manicure, and don't view it as a splurge but as a necessary part of your routine, advises Monid.

"Think of it as a health investment and schedule it in your appointment book. Getting a massage once a month on a particular day should be part of your routine," she says. "No matter how busy you get, make it part of the structured schedule you have for yourself." Feeling newly polished and relaxed will help you take on the next day with energy and a positive outlook.

6. Take yourself out on a creative date
Cultivate your most important relationship -- your bond with yourself. "Part of a woman's self care is really investing time in herself, which means doing things on her own," explains Monid. "Take yourself out on a creative date and check out a new neighbourhood and window shop. Or visit a museum -- many have free admission on certain days. Just spending time by yourself on these personal dates stimulates creative energy and cultivates inner awareness and mindfulness," she says. The more creatively stimulated you are, the more confident you tend to be.

Ultimately, feeling sexy starts with loving yourself. Put your health first, make time for creative pursuits and celebrate the sensual parts of your life -- and before you know it that vibrant energy will start to take hold. The ability to be sexy exists in all of us, so don't be afraid to flaunt it.

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