Summer is the perfect time to unwind, refresh and try something new. Your health and wellness should be at the top of your priority list, and taking care of yourself with rejuvenating activities can greatly benefit both your mental and physical health.
Whether you are spending this summer at home with a “staycation” or leaving town to explore somewhere else, here are a few wellness activities that can help you make the most of your personal time.
Rejuvenating Summer Wellness Activities
Plan a Home (or Professional) Spa Day – Never underestimate the power of self-care and treating yourself to a truly relaxing experience. Spas are a great way to escape your troubles and feel the pressures of life melt away. If it’s not in the budget to go to a professional spa or salon, be empowered to make your own affordable version at home! Make or purchase your own face mask, listen to tranquil music and soak in the tub. Ask a spouse or family member to give you a massage. Give yourself a refreshing skin treatment or trim/buff/clean your nails. Do whatever it takes to walk away feeling fresh and confident!
Enjoy the Great Outdoors – Summer is known for its sunny weather, beautiful colors and abundance of wildlife. Make sure you get outside and soak it all in! Active outdoor activities are a great way to take advantage of Mother Nature while working in exercise. Here are a few outdoor active activities you can try:
- Swimming
- Kayaking or canoeing
- Hiking and camping
- Nature walks
- Bicycling/cycling
- Outdoor sports (volleyball, tennis, etc.)
- In-line skating
In addition to being good for your weight and physical health, spending time doing active outdoor activities can boost your mood and put in a spring in your step. Nothing is as refreshing as enjoying all that nature has to offer!
Create a New Recipe – Summer is abundant with colorful seasonal produce that you can use in your kitchen. For the freshest and most affordable options, visit a local farmer’s market for a few of these in-season fruits and vegetables listed below. For a full list of what’s in-season, click here.
- Melons
- Avocadoes
- Summer squash
- Broccoli
- Carrots
- Tomatoes
- Green beans
- Cauliflower
- Apples
- Cherries
Once you have your produce selections, make some new recipes! If you need inspiration, look on Pinterest or Instagram for what others are crafting in their kitchen. Get your family involved and make cooking a fun bonding activity that supports not just their health, but their creativity.
Conclusion
Don’t let summer fade away without taking time to do something rewarding. You likely won’t remember sitting on the couch and watching television to escape the heat, but you will remember the activities that boosted your mental and physical health. Make this summer one to enjoy, and don’t forget to try something new and to treat yourself!