Making the Most of Summer: Establishing Habits for Positive Mental Health
- brittanymale
- May 13
- 4 min read
As the days grow longer and the sun shines brighter, summer presents the perfect opportunity to rejuvenate both body and mind. There's something invigorating about the warmth and vibrancy of this season that beckons us to make the most of every moment. However, amidst the allure of summer adventures lies a unique opportunity to establish habits that promote positive mental health. In this blog post, we will explore how to thoughtfully craft a summer routine that nurtures your well-being without overwhelming your schedule.
Determining the Right Practices for Your Routine
Before diving headfirst into a myriad of activities, it's essential to identify which practices will truly benefit your mental health. The key is to strike a balance between adding enriching experiences and avoiding burnout.
Self-Assessment
Start by conducting a self-assessment. This involves reflecting on what aspects of your mental health need attention. Are you feeling stressed, socially isolated, or lacking in physical activity? Pinpointing these areas will help you tailor your summer habits.
See below for a printable self-assessment tool to aid in determining your unmet needs.
Practical Tip: Keep a journal for a week, noting down your feelings, energy levels, and any recurring thoughts. This can provide insight into what might be lacking or overabundant in your life.
Example: Sarah, a busy marketing executive, noticed through journaling that she felt disconnected from her friends. She decided to prioritize social activities in her summer routine to foster connection.
Prioritization Without Overdoing It
It’s easy to overcommit, especially during the excitement of summer. To avoid this, prioritize activities that align with your needs and schedule. Choose a few key habits rather than overwhelming yourself with too many commitments.
Practical Tip: Use a priority matrix to categorize potential activities by their impact on your mental health and the effort required. Focus on high-impact, low-effort activities.
See below for a printable matrix tool to aid in determining what activities would be best to prioritize.
Example: Tom, a college student, used a priority matrix to realize that a short daily walk in nature had a high positive impact on his mood with minimal time investment.
Practical Summer Habits for Busy People
With a plan in place, it’s time to explore practical habits that can be seamlessly integrated into your summer routine. These habits cater to various aspects of mental health, ensuring a holistic approach.
1. Morning Mindfulness
Starting your day with mindfulness can set a positive tone. Making coffee and thinking what needs to be accomplished today is a popular practice. This could also be as simple as a five-minute meditation or deep-breathing exercise.
Implementation Tip: Create a quiet corner in your home as a dedicated mindfulness space. Use apps like Calm or Headspace to guide your sessions.
Example: Emily, a teacher, began her mornings with a ten-minute guided meditation. She found that this practice reduced her anxiety and improved her focus throughout the day.
2. Outdoor Physical Activity
Summer is the perfect time to embrace outdoor exercise, which not only boosts physical health but also enhances mental well-being through exposure to sunlight and nature.
Implementation Tip: Schedule regular outdoor activities like hiking, cycling, or even a simple walk in the park. Involve friends or family to make it a social event.
Example: Mike, a software developer, started a weekly hiking group with his colleagues. This not only improved his fitness but also strengthened his social connections.
3. Creative Outlets
Engaging in creative activities can be a powerful way to express emotions and relieve stress. Whether it’s painting, writing, or playing music, creativity offers an emotional release.
Implementation Tip: Dedicate a specific time each week for creative pursuits. Consider joining a local class or online community for inspiration and support.
Example: Lisa, a stay-at-home mom, took up photography and joined an online community to share her work. The creative process became a joyful escape and a way to connect with others.
4. Digital Detox
With busy schedules, it’s easy to become tethered to digital devices. A digital detox can help reduce stress and improve mental clarity.
Implementation Tip: Establish tech-free zones or times in your day, such as during meals or before bed. Use apps that monitor screen time to stay accountable.
Example: James, a freelance writer, instituted a no-phone policy during dinner. This simple change improved his family interactions and allowed him to unwind more effectively.
Conclusion
As we embrace the warmth and freedom of summer, it's essential to remember that cultivating habits for positive mental health doesn't have to be complicated or time-consuming. By carefully selecting practices that resonate with your needs and integrating them into your routine, you can enjoy a fulfilling and balanced summer.
Thought-Provoking Questions:
What mental health practices have you found most beneficial in your life, and how can you adapt them for summer?
How can you involve your community or loved ones in your mental health journey this season?
In what ways can you carry forward the habits you establish this summer into the rest of the year?
By reflecting on these questions, using the organization templates included below, and implementing the strategies outlined above, you can make the most of the summer months, fostering a sense of joy and well-being that lasts long after the season has passed.
For more information about the services that Blackberry Counseling Center has to offer, feel free to email contact.blackberry@blackberrycounselingcenter.com or call (217) 471-4229. Visit our Clinicians page to learn who might be a good fit for you.
Comments