Let’s face it. One of the best things about winter is indulging in hearty comfort food and snuggling up inside. But months of fondu and hot cocoa without access to the great outdoors can lead to a little softness – often conveniently shielded from judging eyes by equally soft and snuggly sweaters.

As the seasons change and sweaters yield to swimsuits, many of us get the itch to get back out there and exercise. Running! Swimming! Biking! Suddenly, so many activities are available to us again, but after months of lethargy it can be difficult to know where to start. Yet, building a workout routine, whether for the first time or just after a long time, doesn’t have to be daunting.

To get the 411 on getting fit, we asked fitness guru and creator of VIPE, Marlies Korijn, to share her motivational secrets. Check out Marlies’ simple suggestions for kick starting your fitness routine this season. Then, stop reading and get out there!

Stress. A natural human response, stress is essential for keeping us out of trouble, but it can also cause a lot of trouble, especially when it becomes chronic.

Stress is allegedly responsible for 75-90% of doctor visits, and while you may not even realize that you’re exhibiting signs of stress, in this day and age, chances are … you are. With the average work week stretching far beyond the “standard” 40 hours, and more and more ways to remain plugged in at all times (here’s lookin’ at you, Apple Watch) it’s no wonder that we often have trouble unwinding.

While it’s tempting to reach for a glass of wine or a pint of ice cream to temporarily alleviate stress, there are many more effective ways of doing so, all without the side serving of guilt. Below are some healthy and simple methods to dealing with whatever life throws at you.