When we think of summer, we think of sunny days, beach trips, and a break from routine. However, it’s important to be aware that summer can also bring unexpected stress or anxiety. Whether you’re thriving or struggling, summer presents a unique opportunity to reset and invest in your mental well-being. Here’s how you can care for your mental health while soaking up the season.
1. Redefine What “Summer Fun” Means to You
Not every summer needs to be filled with road trips, festivals, or a packed social calendar. Give yourself the power to redefine the season. Maybe that’s quiet mornings with a book, evening walks, or gardening. Doing what feels right for you—without comparing your summer to others’—is a powerful form of self-care.
2. Stay Hydrated and Nourished
Heat and humidity can mess with your sleep, energy, and mood. Have you ever noticed how tired you feel after a day at the beach? Try:
● Keeping your space cool and well-ventilated.
● Staying hydrated (mental fatigue is often linked to dehydration). What you eat can also help meet your fluid needs. Many fruits and veggies, like watermelon and spinach, are almost 100% water by weight.
● Opting for lighter foods that are easy to digest. Eating only “summer junk food” can lead to energy crashes. Try out some of the local farmers’ markets and make seasonal produce part of your summer diet.
o Try out the Farmers’ Market at Villa Parke Center on Tuesdays or Victory Park on Saturdays.
3. Create a Flexible Routine
Summer often brings a change in schedule—kids are home from school, work hours may shift, or travel might throw off your rhythm. A flexible routine can provide structure without rigidity:
● Maintain consistent sleep and wake times. An inconsistent sleep schedule can lead to irritability and burnout. Make sleep a priority and try to maintain your regular sleep schedule the best you can.
● Schedule small moments of calm each day. This could be a few minutes of meditation, journaling, or enjoying your morning coffee outside. The key is to find activities that help you relax and recharge, even if it’s just for a short time.
● Incorporate movement that feels good—swimming, hiking, dancing, or stretching in the park. Find movement that you love; if you’re enjoying your exercise, then you’re more likely to continue!
▪ Try the “Integrate Mind and Body” class at the YMCA.
4. Watch for “Sunshine Pressure”
Summer can come with a surge in social activities. There are BBQs and weddings to attend. There’s often an unspoken pressure to “make the most of summer,” which can create stress or FOMO (fear of missing out). Connecting with others is very important to our mental health, but so is rest. If you’re feeling low, overwhelmed, or socially drained, that’s valid. Pay attention to what your body is saying to you and honor your needs. You have the right to prioritize your well-being. If you need to skip that social event to stay home and rest, go for it! This summer don’t let anxiety and unexpected stress get you down. It’s time to redefine what summer enjoyment means to you. By prioritizing hydration and nutrition and creating flexible routines that support mental well-being, you can make the most of this season. Consider visiting a local farmers’ market or joining a movement class. But remember, it’s equally important to balance these social activities with adequate rest. I hope that this blog will help you to embrace summer in a way that feels authentic and restorative.
