Celebrating the 4th of July reminds us that we are amid the middle of Summer. The warm weather and sunny days are a perfect time to think about improving our self-care. Take a little extra care of yourself and change up your routine to enjoy all this season has to offer. Here are some suggestions to help you get started, get outside, and enjoy the sunshine:
- Abandon the couch and relax outdoors. Take a blanket or lawn chair and something to read and set up a retreat to enjoy being outdoors on a beautiful sunny day!
- Take a walk. A walk is a great way to clear your head and enjoy a warm summer afternoon. Invite a friend and get your exercise while catching up.
- Visit your local farmer’s market. Take advantage of seasonal produce and local vendors. A trip to the farmer’s market can be a great opportunity to try new foods, incorporate healthier options into your diet and enjoy local produce.
- Gardening is a great way to meditate, enjoy the outdoors and get some sunshine. It is an opportunity to spend time with your family and make new friends.
- Tidy one small space in your home or office. Organize a drawer or your desktop– even having one space clean and free of clutter helps you feel calmer.
- Make a summer playlist. There are many great summer tunes to enjoy. Music is an easy way to improve your mood and motivate you to get moving.
- Have a picnic. Enjoying a meal outside is an easy way to get fresh air and sunshine.
- Try a new exercise. Try a new outdoor activity. Hiking, pickle ball or swimming are frequent outdoor activities. Remember to use sunscreen and bug spray!
- Participate in community events. Search online or in the newspaper for events going on around town. Consider outdoor movies, yard sales, festivals, farmer’s markets, or concerts. Making fun plans is exciting and gives you something to look forward to.
- Start a journal. Writing can be a great way to express how you feel and check-in with your emotions. Or create a drawing or doodle journal. Document summer1
- Reconnect with someone. Call an old friend – family member or grandparent.
- Go exploring. Look into areas you have not visited in your community. Find a new part of town you have never visited and visit.
- Practice mindfulness. Try meditation or create a list of 10 things you are thankful for daily.
- Complete a needs assessment. How was last week? How can you make next week better? Do you need more sleep? Prepare some healthy meals in advance and freeze. Take a moment to reflect and decide what is needed to take better care of yourself.
Use these ideas to complete your own self-care checklist this summer. Small changes to your routine can improve your self-care practice and overall mood. Focus on new ways you can be active, get outside and get involved with your community. Have a great summer!
Written by: Beth Stefura, OSU Extension Educator, Mahoning County, stefura.2@osu.edu
Reviewed by: Margaret Jenkins, OSU Extension Educator, Clermont County, jenkins.188@osu.edu
References
https://extension.illinois.edu/global/summer-self-care-series
Self-care: 4 ways to nourish body and soul – Harvard Health
Self Care 101 | Psychology Today
Live Healthy Live Well 
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