Summer is meant for fun! Ever since you were a kid in elementary school, you looked forward to summer break. Although, as an adult, the magic of the summer months can sometimes feel far away. With the demands of household duties, balancing summer camps, activities, entertaining kids and work obligations, summer can end up feeling more stressful than other seasons.
Let’s chat about some things you can do this summer that will help you reset and give you a new perspective for those long summer days. Here are 8 self-care ideas that you can start today to refill and recharge when the days get long:
1. Take Ten: Set an alarm or reminder on your phone to take a 10 minutes for yourself. This can look different for everyone, but do something intentional for 10 minutes that will act as a reset. Maybe retreat to a quiet space, a few deep breaths, a power nap or 10 minutes of yoga can help clear your mind. Be willing to pull away for a few minutes to recharge your battery.
2. Go For A Walk: During the summer months it may be way too hot midday, so try to go for a walk in the morning or evening time or find a shaded path near your house! A little movement paired with sunshine and fresh air can do wonders.
3. Reach Out & Connect: Text a friend to meet for coffee, lunch or dinner. If your busy summer schedule doesn’t allow for an in-person meet-up, then make a call, send a text or Marco Polo just to connect, chat, catch up, and laugh. Having authentic conversation with someone you love can completely transform your mind, attitude and feelings.
4. Journal: Have a pen & notebook reachable throughout your day. Getting your thoughts, cares & worries out of your head and onto paper can help bring clarity and declutter your mind. Not sure where to start? Here are a few journal prompt questions that will get you going!
5. Limit Screen Time: This is difficult for most of us these days, but nonetheless, is more important than ever. With the constant pressure and urge to check your messages or scroll through social media, the best way to take care of YOU is to simply put the phone down and work on being more present. Check out this new tool designed to help.
6. Declutter Your Home: “Clear your space, clear your mind.” I’ve found this to be so very true. Cleaning out a room, closet or even just a drawer can feel so good! Try adding a 10-20 minute block into your morning or evening routine for straightening up your desk, workspace, kitchen - or wherever you spend most of your time.
7. Practice Yoga: I never cease to be amazed by how much better I feel after a few minutes of yoga or stretching. Not only is it a component of fitness and great for your body by helping release tension, it’s incredible for your mind, too. Yoga partnered with deep breathing helps you tap into that powerful mind/body connection that can instantly reduce stress! Here is a free yoga fusion practice to try at home this summer.
8. ENJOY a Summer Activity: All too often we are bogged down by busy summer schedules, prepping food for kiddos (ALL DAY LONG) or checking things off the to-do list. Make a summer bucket list and choose an activity and then be fully present and truly enjoy it! Embrace the season. Relax by the pool, read a book on the beach or dock, or play a game outside with your kids. Find what brings you joy and peace & intentionally fill up your cup!
As an advocate for complete health & wellness- body, mind and soul- this is one subject I’m very passionate about. As a working mother of four, I know truly understand the daily stressors and responsibilities that many women face. This is why I created an online community for women that is focused on holistic wellness because I believe that health is not just physical, but mental and spiritual as well.
My online community provides members with weekly virtual workouts that they can do anywhere, spiritual encouragement, support from myself and other members and nutritional coaching throughout the month. Together we find commonality, accountability and real personal growth that benefits ourselves, friends and family! Learn more about the Stronger Together Online Community here.