Summer is all about slowing down and unwinding which makes it an ideal time to focus on self-care. The days are longer, the weather is warmer and there are many opportunities to adjust your routine. We’ve rounded up 21 summer activities that can help you focus on you this month.
- Go to the Beach or Spend Time Near Water
Grab a blanket or chair and something to read and set up camp by a stream, lake or ocean. The sound of moving water is soothing and can help boost clarity.
- See a Feel-Good Movie
One of the best ways to beat the heat this summer is to head to relax indoors with a feel-good flick. Bonus points if you invite a friend or loved one and spend some quality time together.
- Reconnect with Someone
Reach out to an old friend or plan something special with a loved one and enjoy some well-deserved quality time.
- Picnic in the Park
Enjoying a meal outside is an easy way to get some fresh air and shake up your routine. Bring a blanket, a few of your favorite foods and maybe even a yard game or a book and have a picnic in your backyard or at a park or beach.
- Enjoy a Community Event
Consider checking out a county fair, local festival, community flea market, yard sale, or outdoor movie. Search online or in the local paper for events going on around town.
- Go Camping and Unplug
Spending time in nature is good for mood. Plus, camping is a great opportunity to step away from technology, unplug and make time for real connection.
- Start a Garden or Join a Community Garden
Gardening can be a form of meditation and a great way to bond with family or make new friends. Plus, at the end of the day, you’ll get to enjoy some home-grown food or flowers.
- Try a New Gym, Art Studio, Dance Class or Hobby
Indulge in a group workout full of motivational cheers, try a dance class or pick another hobby to invest in this summer. Hobbies can be a great way to express yourself and check-in.
- Start or Continue a Journal
Writing can be a great way to express how you feel and check-in with your emotions. Try journaling to practice gratitude, explore meaning or even keep track of your summer self-care checklist.
- Go to Therapy
Therapy is a great summer self-care activity that can help with a range of key topics from anxiety to sleep to relationships to mood.
- Visit the Zoo
Take a trip to your local zoo and see your favorite animals in-person. Watching cute animals can help reduce stress as well as boost mood and productivity.
- Tidy One Small Space
Organize your space and declutter your mind. Focus on one room at a time, one area of the room at a time, one surface or drawer at a time.
- Plan a Vacation or Staycation
Where you go isn’t as important as taking the time to do something for yourself. Consider taking a road trip to a place that’s especially beautiful this time of year or enjoy the sights and sounds of your own city.
- Shop at a Local Farmer’s Market
Pick out some seasonal produce while supporting local vendors. This can be a great opportunity to try a new food or challenge yourself to incorporate more fruits and veggies into your routine.
- Visit a Museum
Spend a relaxing afternoon at a museum to learn about history or admire art. Focusing on intellectual wellness can reduce the risk of depression and dementia, as well as boost self-confidence, self-esteem and overall outlook on life.
- Make Your Favorite Recipe
In the summertime, many delicious ingredients are in season. Try making your favorite recipe from scratch using fresh produce.
- Plan an At-Home Spa Day
Make yourself feel cared with a bubble bath, face mask or pedicure. Candles, essential oils and a relaxing playlist can boost relaxation and make your home feel like a spa.
- Go Strawberry Picking
Berries are a mood-boosting food, and they always taste better when you pick them yourself. Find a local “u-pick” farm and spend an afternoon strawberry picking. Just don’t forget the sunscreen!
- Participate in Playful Activities
Which summer activities did you love the most as a child? Connect with your inner child and play whether it’s by visiting a waterpark, enjoying backyard BBQ or playing minigolf.
- Do a Mini Check-In
Think back on the past seven days. How did you feel? Maybe you could have used more sleep, more social time or healthier meals? Think about how you can make time for whatever you need to best care for yourself.
- Go Exploring
Having fun doesn’t mean you have to travel far. Find a new area of town that you haven’t been to yet and check out the sights or try something new.
Which activities could best support your self-care this summer? Even small changes to your routine can improve your wellbeing and overall mood. Consider making a summer self-care checklist and focus on new ways you can be active, enjoy nature and get involved in your community.
