10 Ways to Be Relaxed & Rejuvenated This Summer

Many of us live in a perpetual state of busyness. I have never been into the “hustle” mentality. I believe that we can be successful, fulfilled individuals without making our lives about work 24/7. And in fact, I think we would all be much happier by giving ourselves daily time to rest and just be, to connect with who we are, not just what we do.

The world feels particularly stressful right now. Why compound that with our own personal stress as well, if that stress is within our control? Summer, to me, should be a time to slow down, appreciate the natural world, and do what makes our souls sing. I would like to encourage us all to let go of frantic days and embrace rest. We’ll all be better humans because of it. Here are 10 ways we can do so this summer:

1. Read a book.

I’m a teacher and a reader, so while I feel pretty strongly about this one, I know that everyone can benefit. Books simply allow us to lose ourselves in a story or teach ourselves something new. They provide wonderful escapism while also expanding our minds to different perspectives, making us more empathetic, open-minded people. Here are some books I’ve read over the past few weeks that I would recommend to you (please purchase from your local independent seller if you are able): How to Be an Antiracist, The Scent Keeper, Writers & Lovers, and News of the World. Up next for me is Between the World and Me.

2. Take a safe getaway – or create your own.

Everyone’s comfort level is different during this pandemic. If you are able to safely take a road trip to the beach and stay in your “quarantine bubble” while you’re there, then I think that can be a wonderful thing for your mental health. But if that will only make you feel more stressed, then create your own staycation by unplugging from social media for a few days, taking a hike, watching a favorite TV show, or anything else that makes you feel good (maybe even get a kiddie pool like me!).

3. Get absorbed in a creative project.

Sometimes, the best way to relax and connect with ourselves is to do something creative that we love. For me, I love writing and blogging of course – and doing jigsaw puzzles. There’s something about puzzles that allows me to get completely lost in them, forget the world and just de-stress. I love seasonal puzzles, so right now I’m doing a summer scene because it makes me feel connected to the season at hand. I also love coloring; it has the same effect on me.

4. Move your body.

We all need to move, every day. Take a walk, stretch at home, whatever suits you. Since it’s become hotter, I’ve been getting up earlier and walking Cleo first thing in the morning with my mom and her dog, Elsie. To me, it’s the best way to start the day.

5. Eat fresh produce.

Summer is my favorite time for fresh fruits and vegetables. Watermelon, tomatoes, peaches, cucumbers, greens, berries. While we are mostly staying home and venturing out from time-to-time, it can be easy to keep reaching for the cookies. I like to indulge, but keep it balanced by eating fresh food as well. Eating fresh always makes me feel better.

6. Set limits.

Set limits on anything that makes you feel stressed or anxious. Working from home makes it easy to essentially work at all hours of the day, but enforce a stop time so you can enjoy your day or evening. Same goes for social media or the news. Take a break if it feels overwhelming to you.

7. See loved ones safely.

For our own mental health, it’s important that we are able to connect with family and friends – whether that is through a video call or outside from a distance. You are not alone in this. Prioritize the people who love you, and appreciate them.

8. Express gratitude.

Gratitude is a healthy feeling. Taking the time to think about what we are grateful for can make us happier. This summer, try a new way to practice gratitude. Perhaps create a gratitude journal, write down something you’re grateful for each day, or express gratitude through prayer.

9. Do one thing each day that makes you smile.

Be silly. Listen to an upbeat song. Dance around. Feel lighthearted. Watch an episode of a funny TV show. When our days are packed and full, sometimes we forget to let loose and just laugh. Each day this summer, see if you can do something that makes yourself smile.

10. Observe the world.

Take a few minutes to step outside, and do nothing. Listen to the birds chirping in the day or the cicadas buzzing at night. Watch the fireflies. Gaze at the clouds or the moon. There is much to see and hear in the summertime. Feel connected to this natural world, and feel peace.

How will you take time to rest this summer?