Dare to Do: The Science of Sunshine

April showers bring May flowers, eh? So far, we're not convinced. Early-onset spring weather awakens a yearning for bare feet, grass stains, and grilled zucchini, but those taunting 80-degree glimpses can make a slow seasonal transition that much more unbearable. Don't let a rainy streak dampen your spirits. Bring a little solar power to each of your five senses with our office-approved recipe for sunshine.

See things in a new light. Feeling glum? A dim desktop could be to blame. Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD) is a real affliction, and its effects are due in part to the quality and lack of winter light. Consider supplementing your overhead fluorescents with a desk lamp, or decorate with a string of colorful paper lanterns. Just save the tiki torches for your Memorial Day barbecue.

Build a soundtrack that sizzles. If you're allowed to play music on the job, put together a playlist worthy of a highway drive with the windows down. Movie and TV soundtracks are designed to create a mood—lift a California cadence straight from The O.C., or assemble a collection of theme songs from beachy classics such as Baywatch and Hawaii Five-O.

Put your nose to the sandstone. Your favorite citrus basil scented candle might win you a one-way trip to the office fire marshal, but if you rotate perfumes on a seasonal basis, now is the perfect time to make the switch. A whif of tangerine, coconut, or salty ocean air could be just the thing to reel you in from a stressful morning. Hey, can we borrow your wrist for a moment?

Taste the rainbow. What's more reminiscent of summer than the flavor of fresh fruits and vegetables? (Okay, maybe the flavor of vanilla soft serve, but let's be reasonable here). Throw together a summery salad (you'll want to bookmark this article immediately), or grab a tropical smoothie from the cafeteria or corner shop. Just make sure you've got a mug of something steamy on hand to bring you back up to room temperature when you're done.

Touch up your togs. Trendy fruit prints and classic stripes make this spring high season for a summer wardrobe update. For those with more conservative dress codes, embrace the art of contrast—a pop of color won't have your boss seeing red when paired with your standard neutrals. The combination of khaki and electric blue feels particularly current (pun intended).

—Emma Aubry Roberts