9 Summer Activities to Help You Relax, Recharge, and Reflect
As the summer sun begins to shine and the days grow longer, it’s the perfect time for us to prioritize our well-being and embrace relaxation. With the hustle and bustle of daily life, it’s crucial to carve out moments of tranquility and self-care.
And that’s the very reason we’ve curated a list of nine rejuvenating summer activities explicitly tailored for female entrepreneurs. From basking in the sun at the beach to delving into the depths of a captivating book, these summer activities will help you unwind, destress, and rediscover your inner calm.
1. Beach or Pool Day
Spend a day by the water, whether it’s at the beach or a pool. Soak up the sun, take refreshing dips, and unwind with a good book or some soothing music.
Spending time in the sun is a great way to relax, destress and recharge. It’s also an excellent source of Vitamin C, which has been shown to have many positive effects on mental health. Vitamin C helps reduce stress levels by boosting serotonin production, improving mood and helping with sleep regulation. Additionally, it can promote better concentration and clarity of thought. In short, soaking up some rays not only feels good but provides your body with essential nutrients that help you stay mentally healthy!
2. Outdoor Yoga or Meditation
Find a peaceful outdoor spot, such as a park or garden, and practice yoga or meditation. Connecting with nature and focusing on breathing can help calm the mind and reduce stress.
Studies have shown that taking time to practice mindfulness can also have immense mental health benefits. Mindfulness is the practice of focusing on the present moment without judgment, and it has been linked to improved concentration and better decision-making. Additionally, it promotes better self-awareness and emotional regulation, helping us better manage our stress levels and anxiety.
3. Nature Walk or Hike
Explore the beauty of nature by going for a walk or hike. Find a nearby trail or park, breathe in the fresh air, and let the sights and sounds of nature help you unwind and clear your mind.
It’s also worth noting that hiking is an excellent way to get some exercise while connecting with nature. It’s a great form of cardiovascular activity that can help strengthen the heart and lungs and improve balance and coordination. Plus, it’s low-impact. So it won’t put too much strain on your joints.
Additionally, hiking has been linked to improved mental health outcomes such as reduced stress levels, improved mood, and even enhanced creativity. Being surrounded by nature helps us disconnect from our everyday worries and appreciate the beauty of the world around us. Long hikes also give us time to think more deeply about our lives and gain clarity on how we want to move forward in life. In short, hiking is not only good for physical health but also provides many mental benefits!
4. Art Therapy
Engage in creative activities like painting, drawing, or crafting. Creating art can be a therapeutic outlet for expressing emotions and reducing stress. Set up a dedicated space where you can let your creativity flow.
Personally, I have an entire room in my home dedicated to my mental health. It’s filled with plants, calming decor, my favorite books, cozy blankets (and big plush chairs), my sketchbooks and an art easel. While it may not be possible to dedicate an entire room to your mental health in your home – even if you can just do a corner – you’ll find that even just the aura it creates will help to calm you.
Furthermore, exploring your creative side can have loads of benefits beyond just your mental health. It can also boost your self-esteem, help make you more creative in your work life, and even improve your memory!
5. Picnic in the Park
Pack a delicious picnic and head to a nearby park. Enjoy the serene surroundings, savor tasty treats, and take time to relax and recharge amidst nature.
You can even turn this into a girl’s day out or a date with your romantic partner – grab a picnic basket (and blanket), a bottle of your favorite wine (and don’t forget the opener), and a meat and cheese plate from your local grocery store – or, if you’re vegan, pick up a veggie tray and your favorite vegan dip. It’s a great way to relax in nature and have a lovely summer afternoon! (Not to mention, it’s one of the most fun summer activities!)
6. Mindful Journaling
Set aside time each day to write in a journal. Reflect on your thoughts, feelings, and experiences, and use journaling as a tool for self-expression and self-discovery. Write down positive affirmations or gratitude lists to cultivate a sense of well-being.
One great way to practice mindful journaling is to write a stream-of-consciousness log which is meant to capture your thoughts and feelings at that moment in time. This gives you an opportunity to reflect on how you’re feeling, what’s going on in your life, and what changes or decisions you may need to make.
Additionally, it can help you to identify any unhealthy thought patterns or emotional triggers that may be holding you back and allow you to work on your mental health in a safe, controlled way.
7. Disconnect from Technology
Take a break from screens and social media by disconnecting for a day or even a weekend. Use this time to engage in summer activities that bring you joy, connect with loved ones, or simply enjoy solitude without digital distractions.
It’s also worth mentioning that disconnecting from technology can have numerous benefits. Studies have found that spending less time on social media can lead to improved mental health and emotional well-being, as it gives us more time to focus on ourselves and our own needs. It also allows us to connect with loved ones more deeply and meaningfully, rather than relying on virtual communication as a substitute for physical contact.
Finally, unplugging from technology can help us to become more mindful and present in the moment. By taking a break from screens and social media, we can be more aware of our surroundings and reconnect with nature or ourselves in often forgotten ways when constantly glued to our phones or laptops.
8. Read for Pleasure
One of my favorite summer activities is reading outside, whether on a porch, a park, or a local cafe. Dive into a book or a series that captures your imagination and allows you to escape into different worlds. Reading can be a great way to relax, unwind, and find solace in captivating stories.
Reading for pleasure can have a myriad of benefits both in our personal and professional lives. Research has shown that reading can help reduce stress, improve concentration and focus, and sharpen problem-solving skills.
In addition, it can also help to expand our knowledge base and improve our communication skills. Professionally, reading for pleasure can open up possibilities for new ideas and open our minds to different perspectives.
9. Take Yourself on a Summer Date
You don’t have to get fancy with this. But if you want to, I’m not stopping you! This can be as simple as going for a long walk, exploring your favorite outdoor spot, or taking yourself out to lunch (or a movie). Doing something special that is just for you can be incredibly rewarding and uplifting.
Taking yourself on dates can remind us to appreciate our own company and help us to rediscover our inner passions. It can be a great way to practice self-care, reflect on what’s important in life, and celebrate the little joys that make being alive so special. Plus, you never know who you might meet or what new experiences await when exploring your local area!
These Summer Activities Provide An Unique Opportunity
Summer provides a unique opportunity to embrace the beauty of nature and indulge in activities that nourish the mind, body, and soul. Whether you prefer the invigorating feel of cool water against your skin or the therapeutic power of creative expression, it’s essential to make time to relax and rejuvenate yourself this summer. It will make you a happier and more productive individual – both personally and professionally.
So get ready to step away from the demands of everyday life and embark on a journey of self-care and well-being. Grab your sun hat, slip into your favorite summer dress, and dive into these nine blissful activities that will help you unwind and rejuvenate your spirit!
Emily Sprinkle, also known as Emma Loggins, is a designer, marketer, blogger, and speaker. She is the Editor-In-Chief for Women's Business Daily where she pulls from her experience as the CEO and Director of Strategy for Excite Creative Studios, where she specializes in web development, UI/UX design, social media marketing, and overall strategy for her clients.
Emily has also written for CNN, Autotrader, The Guardian, and is also the Editor-In-Chief for the geek lifestyle site FanBolt.com
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