Beauty is holistic: it’s the energy that glows within us, and the energy we put out into the world. It’s what we put in our body and on it.

To enhance our beauty energy, we need to release what no longer serves us. We habitually add items, activities, beliefs, and routines to our lives until they’re overflowing. Releasing something brings us more space, more freedom, and more energy. We’ve spoken with our Spoon Crew — our team, our friends, and some of our favorite wellness gurus — to discover what they’re releasing.

This week, health and wellness blogger, Ari Gremling, shares what she’s letting go and why.

The Physical

What physical item are you throwing away?

I’ve been in a “purging” mood over the last few months: I’ve been slowly going through my belongings and bagging up clothing to donate. Over the last several years, I’ve accumulated so many pieces that no longer serve a purpose in my life. It feels incredible to clear my space while being able to donate to those who benefit from these items!

The Expectation

What expectation that you put on yourself are you letting go?

That everything needs to be perfect. I’m an inward perfectionist. It drives me mad when I can’t find the perfect words for a blog post, or catch the perfect angle for an Instagram picture. It was getting to the point where I would just give up and not share the otherwise authentic post. It’s definitely a struggle, but being able to let go of that irrational expectation has helped me feel like the more “raw” version of myself.

The Habit

What long-lasting habit or movement are you stopping?

Mindlessly scrolling through social media. I used to (and sometimes still do) scroll through Instagram when there were still things I needed to get done that day. I was so consumed by Instagram and Pinterest that I was getting behind on basic things, which ultimately caused excess stress in my life.

The Visual

What image or picture makes you feel beautiful, and why?

This not-so-shameless selfie! Looking at it, I’m reminded of how happy and radiant I felt. My skin was glowing, my hair was healthy, but above all, I was in a state of pure bliss and content.