“Summer is about subtracting the obvious & adding the meaningful.” – John Maeda

As summer approaches, consider adopting a lifestyle that embraces simplicity and mindfulness. Incorporate daily routines that prioritize relaxation and self-care, to foster a sense of peace and well-being.

Continue on as we share practical tips on how to slow down and make room for summer’s joys.

Wake Up with the Sun – If possible, allow yourself to wake up with the sun at least one or two days out of the week. Sleep in. Start your day slowly. Linger in bed. Don’t rush towards errands or activities. Push back the curtains to let the light in. Relish a cup of tea or coffee. Enjoy a leisurely breakfast. Allow the day to greet you gently.

Why – Rising with the sun can aid in setting circadian rhythms, and as well, helps your body to be more in tune with nature. It can also allow you to get better sleep and is a mood booster. Further, it’s just the start of many ways on this list that will help you slow down and practice mindfulness.

Unplug & Take a Digital Detox – Whether for an entire week, a whole day, or just an afternoon, get away from the electronics. Ignore Texts, calls, and emails. Turn off the TV. Cut out the background noise. Choose to unplug and unwind. 

Why – Digital Detoxes are a great way to focus on real-life interactions without distractions. You’re more productive, but also have more time and intention for physical and mental relaxation and restoration. It also enables you to restore focus and balance to life and improve overall wellbeing.

Delete the Distractions – Reevaluate your subscriptions and unsubscribe from anything that no longer makes sense. Block the Spam emails. Use a Call Filter to ward off unwanted texts and calls. Spend a day – or just a few hours – cleaning up your apps, your unread and old messages, and files. Send whatever you can to the Recycle Bin. 

Why – Clearing out the necessary enables you to focus more on what’s important. Not only is your time better spent, you’re also able to prioritize what’s most important, giving attention where it’s needed rather than being pulled away by frustrations. It allows for calmer, more intentional living.

Simplify your Summer. Because Oftentimes, less really is more.

Spend More Time Outdoors – Take a nice, long walk. Have a picnic. Spend time gardening. Go for a swim. Visit a park or botanical center. Sit and enjoy the sun. Go stargazing. Get in the car and drive (with music playing!) to a random destination.

Why – Along with greater doses of Vitamin D, spending more time outdoors has a host of wonderful benefits, including better breathing,  improved mood, improved sleep, reduced depression, and greater overall health. There’s also a greater motivation towards exercise and movement, along with a boost to the immune system. And what greater time to enjoy the outdoors than in the summer months?

Eat Fresh – Buy Local Produce. Choose more raw fruits and vegetables. Enjoy more salads, soups and sandwiches. Eat smaller, lighter, and more frequently. Chew slower and really enjoy your meals.

Why – Eating a well-balanced diet is crucial for maintaining good health, and one way to enhance the quality of your meals while being mindful of your budget is by embracing seasonal fresh foods. Local produce helps in supporting your community’s farmers and boosts the economy. There’s a range of health benefits to fruits and vegetables such as cardio health, decreased cancer risks, and boosting your mood. Fresh produce is quick to prepare and add in to meals. What’s more, you’ll also feel lighter and more energized!

Take a Sabbatical or a Weekend “Staycation” – Take time off. Spend less, plan less, & rest more. Lounge around. Don’t even consider hotels, plane tickets, passports, car rentals, or far away destinations. Simply make your home a refuge and stay there for a while without the pressure of doing anything. Fluff the pillows, wash and change out the bedsheets, have breakfast in bed, and spend hours reading, watching movies, or sitting on the patio. Enjoy where you are.

Why – Taking long and complicated – or expensive! – vacations can be counterproductive to your mood and drain your wallet! Staying in can provide all the rest and fun, without the hassle. You get to enjoy the things you already have. You won’t need a vacation from your vacation, and you’ll go back to work feeling relaxed and rejuvenated. And even better, holidaying at home means you can choose a staycation as often as you want or need!

Just Say “No” – Uncommit to any plans or events you don’t really feel like doing and that aren’t that important. Don’t overschedule yourself. Turn down invitations. Stop the guilt trips. Get away from the drama. Let the chores go undone for a few days. 

Why – Saying “no” to things that you don’t really want or need to do means more time to prioritize the things that really matter. You won’t feel overscheduled or pulled into too many directions. You’ll avoid stress and burnout. It also means more intention and time for family, friends, and self-care – remembering that rest and relationships are also necessary and productive. 

Get a Massage! – Relax and unwind for a hour or two. Get pampered, let go of tension and stress. Take deep breaths, listen to soothing music, feel the calming sensations. And rejuvenate your body and soul.

Why – Along with all the obvious physical health benefits of massage, taking a moment to prioritize self-care is beneficial to your emotional well-being, your spirit, and your overall wellness. Massage & bodywork puts you more in tune with your needs, enhances self-awareness, and motivates you towards other personal enhancement behaviors and practices.

Oftentimes, less really is more. Slowing things down and taking things easy will help you embrace the essence of Summer and better enjoy all the wonderful things the season has to offer.