Tips for Summertime Self-Care
We all know it’s important to practice good self-care in the winter, when rain and cold weather can make us feel a little blue, but we also need to nurture ourselves in the warmer months. Try these four tips for summertime self-care to take full advantage of the rejuvenating effects summer can offer.
Get Outside
Spending time outdoors is a great way to relax, reconnect with yourself and the world around you, and enjoy the beauties of nature. The sunny days of summer are the perfect time to get outside and allow yourself to unwind. Whether you decide to hike, visit a swimming hole, or just sit in the park with a good book, spending time outside can refresh you and help you to feel centered.
Play
Summertime seems to bring out the kid in all of us. Embrace the spontaneity and relaxed atmosphere by channeling your inner child: Run through the sprinkler, have a water fight with your family, go for a bike ride, play games you enjoyed in your childhood. Making time to have fun and be with friends and family is a huge mood-booster and allows you to create memories you can look back on in the future.
Take a Tech Break
Try setting aside one day a week this summer to unplug. Turn off the TV, step away from the computer, and don’t touch the iPhone. Find technology-free ways to keep your hands busy and engage your brain. Doing so will give you the freedom to focus on what you want to with far fewer distractions.
Wake Up Early
It may seem counterintuitive to take care of yourself by getting up early instead of sleeping in, but the quiet of early morning can be especially soothing. Use the cool of the morning to enjoy a cup of tea, potter around in the garden, or soak up the sun for a bit before it gets too hot. Having just a few minutes to yourself before anyone else is awake can give you the perfect start to your day.
Summertime is all about taking time to unwind, relax, and have fun. By focusing some of your energy each day on practicing self-care, you can make this summer a season to nurture yourself physically, mentally, and emotionally.
