Summer is one of my favorite seasons of the year, with its warm sun, long days, and endless possibilities for fun and adventure. But as much as I love all the excitement, I’ve learned over the years that prioritizing self-care is crucial during this busy time. With so much going on, it’s easy to forget to take care of yourself, both physically and mentally. That’s why I’ve put together a list of 15 simple yet effective ways to upgrade my summer self-care routine. And the amazing part is most of these ideas are budget-friendly!
One of my favorite ways to take care of myself during the summer is by spending time in nature. Whether it’s hiking in the mountains, swimming in a lake, or simply lounging in a park, being outside always helps me feel refreshed and rejuvenated. I also love practicing mindfulness, whether it’s through meditation, journaling, or simply taking a few deep breaths throughout the day. But let us not get carried away right now.
By prioritizing self-care this summer, I know that I’ll be able to enjoy all the fun and excitement the season offers while feeling my best. I hope these 15 tips and ideas will inspire you to upgrade your summer self-care routine and make the most of this wonderful time of year.
Summer cleaning your home
Taking the time to clean your entire home during the summer is not only important but should be a regular practice throughout the year. By dedicating yourself to seasonal deep cleaning, you can create a living space that truly aligns with the ambiance and atmosphere you desire. Remove all the remnants of winter and spring by decluttering and organizing your belongings. Embrace the opportunity to infuse your surroundings with a burst of colors and fresh, vibrant energy. Consider rearranging furniture, adding new decorative elements, or introducing seasonal flowers to create an environment that perfectly reflects the summer season.
Eat Local
When summertime arrives, it brings an abundance of local and fresh produce to grocery stores and farmers’ markets. This is the perfect occasion to indulge in the goodness of fruits and vegetables at the peak of their flavor and nutritional value. By opting for locally sourced ingredients, you not only support local farmers and businesses but also enjoy the advantages of seasonal eating. Experiment in the kitchen with new recipes that highlight the freshness and diversity of summer produce. Imagine the delight of enjoying a refreshing watermelon on a sunny day, savoring a crisp and cool cucumber salad, relishing a homemade apple pie bursting with the flavors of the season, or treating yourself to a delicious peach crumble. Let your taste buds explore the beautiful offerings of the summer season.
It’s all about you
This summer, prioritize your own well-being and happiness above all else. Take the time to identify and engage in activities that bring you joy and fulfillment. Embrace a mindset of self-care and self-expression. If surrounding yourself with flowers brings you happiness, treat yourself to a beautiful bouquet. If you’ve been longing for a new haircut, book an appointment at a salon and embark on a transformation that boosts your confidence and reflects your inner radiance. Remember, true joy and happiness start from within. Nurture your soul, engage in activities that align with your passions, and radiate positivity and happiness throughout the summer season.
Update your skincare
Maintaining a proper skincare routine is essential for healthy and glowing skin, and adjusting it between seasons is equally important. As summer arrives, consider updating your skincare products to address the specific needs of your skin during this time of year. Invest in high-quality skincare products that enhance your natural beauty and provide nourishment and protection. Incorporate self-tanning drops from brands like Isle of Paradise to achieve a sun-kissed glow without harmful sun exposure. Choose a glowy foundation from Saie to achieve a radiant complexion that exudes a youthful and fresh appearance. And don’t forget to pamper your lips with a nourishing lip glow oil. However, amidst all these skincare rituals, never underestimate the importance of sunscreen. Shielding your skin from harmful UV rays is crucial especially in Summer for maintaining its health and preventing premature aging. Make sunscreen a daily staple in your skincare routine to safeguard your skin’s youthful appearance for years to come.
Work from a coffee shop
For those of us who still have work during the summer, finding ways to make the experience more enjoyable can have a significant impact on our well-being. Working from a coffee shop offers a change of scenery from your usual workspace. The ambient background noise, the aroma of freshly brewed coffee, and the cozy atmosphere can create a more relaxed and inspiring work environment. So, pack your laptop, grab your favorite notebook, and head to a local coffee shop to boost your productivity and make your workdays more enjoyable.
Map out on google maps all the spots you would love to try out and every week make it a mission to try something new. Add some novelty to your routine.
Say bye to technology.
Summer 2023 is the perfect time to shift gears and embrace a simpler, more balanced lifestyle. Although completely disconnecting from technology might be unrealistic in today’s society, you can still carve out dedicated time to unplug and recharge your own batteries. Set aside a few hours each day or at least once a week to disconnect from social media, log off from work-related apps, and focus on activities that bring you joy and fulfillment. During this tech-free time, you can explore various options such as going for a walk in nature, immersing yourself in a book, expressing your creativity through painting or other artistic endeavors, practicing mindfulness and meditation, or engaging in any hobby or interest that nourishes your soul, the choices are endless!
Outdoor activities are a must
When the warm summer weather knocks on your door, taking advantage of outdoor activities becomes a must. Engaging in activities that allow you to bask in the sun, breathe in fresh air, and connect with nature can bring joy to your day.
Here is a list of outside activities that just scream having the best summer:
- Canoeing
- Golf
- Hiking
- Beach Volleyball
- Tennis
- Swimming
- Kayaking
- Camping
- Jogging
- Yoga in the park
Try out gardening
This year, I’m excited to dive into the world of gardening by growing my own herbs. Even if you don’t have ample space in your apartment like myself to cultivate vegetables or fruits, starting with herbs is a great way to begin your gardening journey. Summer offers the perfect season to experiment with growing herbs like basil, mint, rosemary, or thyme. Imagine the satisfaction of cooking a meal and being able to say, “I made this pesto sauce from the basil I grew myself!” or “This salad? It’s all from my garden!” Not only does gardening provide a rewarding and fulfilling experience, but it also allows you to enjoy the freshness and flavors of homegrown ingredients.
Socialize!
Upgrade your summer by prioritizing quality time with your loved ones. Socializing plays a crucial role in enhancing happiness and overall well-being. While it’s important to take care of ourselves, nurturing our relationships is equally vital. The memories created during summer adventures and outings with friends and family can last a lifetime. The stories you’ll be able to recall and share in the future will be priceless. So, when your friend invites you to a spontaneous outing or gathering, seize the opportunity and say yes!
Watch the sunset/sunrise
Your city might have a really nice spot where you can watch the sunset or sunrise from. Bring along a delicious snack, or a book, or simply sit in quiet contemplation while you recharge with a nice view. Watching the sunset or sunrise offers a perfect opportunity to reflect, find peace, and appreciate the wonders of the world around us.
Try new workouts
After putting in the effort to achieve your summer body, it’s time to shake things up and explore new workout options. Take advantage of the pleasant weather. Consider going for a hike, try rock climbing for a challenge, or go for a run. You can also step out of your comfort zone by trying a new fitness class like pilates or spinning. Incorporating something different into your fitness routine will keep things exciting but also challenges your body in new ways.
Explore your own town
One of the simplest ways to elevate your summer experience is to discover the hidden gems of your own city or neighboring towns. You’d be surprised by the number of museums or temporary exhibits you haven’t yet explored. Keep an eye out for concerts and special events happening in town. Venture into new restaurants, pamper yourself at a new spa resort or unwind at a trendy bar.
Gratitude Journaling
This summer, we’re embarking on a gratitude journaling journey to capture all the amazing experiences and moments we’ll be having. But it’s not just about documenting what we do—it’s also about recognizing and appreciating how those experiences made us feel. By rewiring our brains to focus on the positive aspects of life, we can attract even more positivity.
There are so many things to do in the summer by yourself or with friends so I hope this list has given you some ideas on how to upgrade your summer self-care routine! The importance of summer season on your mental health is to be taken advantage of! Make the most of this special season!
Until next time,
Sofyah,
Sofyah Ov is the founder of Sofyahscorner. Through her travels, she emphasizes the art of living comfortably while adventuring, showing readers how to strike a harmonious balance between world exploration and the soft life. Having lived in 3 different continents, the writer, passionate traveler, and lifestyle enthusiast would love to teach you how you can have it all!
