Summer is a great opportunity for unwinding and enjoying the sunshine, but it’s also important to make sure you’re taking care of yourself. Self-care is essential all year round, but sometimes the warmer months can be especially demanding, what with all the extra social events on top of your regular commitments. To help you survive this summer feeling relaxed and energised, we’ve come up with six essential self-care tips for staying on top form, no matter what the season throws your way.
1. Start the day with a nutritious breakfast
Starting the day with a nutritious breakfast is essential for maintaining a healthy lifestyle, as it provides the necessary energy and nutrients to keep you going throughout the day. To get a good balance of everything you need and stay fuller for longer, include a variety of foods from different groups, such as whole grains, fruits, vegetables, lean protein and healthy fats. Fuel your body to get through the heat of the day.
2. Get some fresh air and sunshine
Whether you go for a run or bike ride, or simply enjoy a walk, getting outside is a huge mood booster. Getting some sun helps us boost our vitamin D levels, which helps us absorb calcium and maintains muscles, nerves and the immune system. It also releases endorphins, chemicals which are produced to relieve your mood and reduce stress.
3. Wear SPF and create an after-sun care routine
You probably know the importance of using SPF by now. The UV rays produced by the sun can damage skin cells and even cause skin cancer, so be sure to wear and regularly reapply an SPF of 30 or more over any exposed skin. After you’ve been outside, use aloe vera, coconut oil, and other natural remedies to moisturise the skin and soothe any sunburn.
4. Unplug from devices
While watching Netflix or playing games can be a great way to unwind after a long day, spending too much time staring at a screen can make it more difficult for you to fall asleep, cause neck and back problems, and even affect your emotional wellbeing. Put away your phone and laptop for a few hours each day to relax and recharge without distraction. By taking time to unplug from your devices, you can improve your mental health, connect with loved ones, and even give yourself a creative boost.
5. Make time for creative pursuits
Do you ever feel like there just aren’t enough hours in the day to pursue creative activities? Between work, social obligations, and other responsibilities, it can be challenging to carve out time for the things that spark our curiosity or truly bring us joy. But trying something new like painting, photography, or pottery as a way to express yourself and explore your creativity. You might discover a new hobby or meet like-minded people who become good friends. It can also be incredibly beneficial for our mental health and overall sense of fulfilment.
6. Connect with people who uplift you
Spending quality time with loved ones is essential for mental health and well-being in the summer months, as well as all year round. Humans thrive on positive connections. When we surround ourselves with people who uplift us, we feel a natural sense of motivation, inspiration, and support. Whether it’s a close friend who always knows how to make you laugh, or a mentor who offers invaluable guidance, these positive interactions can have a profound impact on us.
By Guest Blogger, Clayton Miller
