| Everyone deserves to recharge and relax this summer. Here are some practical tips to help you do just that. Summer is almost here! For most, summer is a time for breaks, slowing down, and taking a much needed vacation. Whether you have some upcoming time off from work or school, summer can be a great time to unwind and take a step back from the stresses of everyday life. This can make for a perfect opportunity to recharge and re-energize. |
| Here are some tips for how to make the most of your summer: 1. Develop Healthy Habits: Summer can be a great time to consider personal goals and develop healthy habits for yourself. Focus on things like nutritious eating, creating an exercise schedule, or practicing yoga and meditation. 2. Get outdoors: From stress management to heart health, study after study has supported the mental and physical health benefits of spending time in nature. Head to a nearby park, pick up some fresh local produce at the farmer’s market, fly a kite, watch the sunset, or plant flowers. You’ll have fun and improve your overall well-being at the same time. 3. Do something new: New experiences make us happier than buying new things. Try out a new lunch spot, take the scenic route to work, pick up a new book, try a new recipe, volunteer, or visit a new place. Opening ourselves up to new experiences can also broaden our perspective and inspire ideas. 4. Unplug and be present: One of the easiest ways to relax this summer is to put down your phone. Be present in the moment and focus on what is in front of you. Set healthy boundaries between work and home to maximize your time off. 5. Spend time with people who fill you up with positive feelings: Relationships are good for our health. Spending time with family and friends increases your sense of belonging and purpose, boosts your happiness, reduces stress, and increases your self-confidence. Strong social support is also attributed to a reduced risk of depression and high blood pressure. 6. Practice gratitude and giving back: There have been a number of studies that suggest that practicing gratitude and generosity could positively impact an individual’s health, both mentally and physically. Keep a daily gratitude journal, organize a food drive, or volunteer at a local animal shelter. 7. Allow some time for just being: Reading, movies, music, wandering in the woods, naps, gazing at the sea, listening to the silence…whatever works for you. Our daily lives around the year tend to be so hectic that there is real value in enjoying these mindful moments. Here’s to a successful summer and a successful you! Erminia Erminia Severini, LPC Licensed Therapist |
