Author: Hannah Miskelley
With summer being around the corner, many look forward to sunny days and warmer nights. For some, summer brings a change in pace and a fresh mindset. The new season can bring new adjustments, such as a change in routine and/or support systems. For children and teens, summer can be an exciting time, but also a time of change in regard to routine and social interactions. Below are a few suggestions to incorporate into your summer routine to boost your overall physical and mental health.
- Maintain and Invest in Relationships: This summer, prioritize your support system and community. Developing a sense of meaningful connection within your relationships has been shown to boost overall well-being.
- Make Time for Meditation, Prayer and Reflection: Summer brings beautiful sunrises and sunsets; try to find space in your day to unplug and find solitude. Meditation, whether in a spiritual sense, or just to check in with yourself is one of the easiest ways to improve our mental health.
- Get Outdoors: Connecting with nature, fresh air and sunlight does wonders for our mental health and mood. A couple of ways to incorporate getting outside daily could include taking a leisurely walk in the morning or after dinner, going for a hike, or taking your lunch break outside.
- Try a New Exercise: Finding an exercise routine that makes you happy is a great way to boost endorphins and increase your overall physical and mental health. Try something new this summer like hiking, tennis, yoga, bike riding or even taking your strength training outside.
- Review Your Current Sleep Schedule: When routines change in summer, due to school being out, increased vacations, and a later sunset, it is important to review your sleep schedule. It is recommended that we obtain 8-10 hours of uninterrupted sleep. A healthy, consistent sleep habit is an essential component of our mental health.
- Make a Summer Feel-Good Playlist: Music can be an effortless way to improve your mood and motivate you to get moving. Try to refresh your summer playlists and tune into what songs will boost your mood for the summer days ahead.
A change of seasons is a time for renewal and reflection. Even small changes to your routine can improve your self-care practice and overall mood. Make this summer the season of self-care!
References:
Prioritizing Mental Wellbeing in the Summer
