This summer, let’s aim to be stress-free! Remember the times when summer was all about being outside, having fun in the sun, and just relaxing? Let’s get back to that! Here are some tips to help you reclaim your summer and make it stress-free once again.
Summer used to be the most relaxing season when we were kids. With no school, we could swim, play, sleep in, and stay up late. As adults, though, it feels like we don’t get to enjoy that carefree vibe even when the weather is perfect for it. But there are ways to make your summer less stressful, bringing back some simplicity. Here are seven tips to help:
Spending time outside has countless benefits, including stress relief. Scientists aren’t entirely sure why, but being outdoors—whether it’s taking a nature walk, bird watching, or picking wildflowers—can calm you down, lower your heart rate, and reduce anxiety. The smell of fresh flowers and natural scents like pine can also have a soothing effect.
Yoga is another great way to unwind. Typically, yoga involves poses that improve your strength and flexibility, and these exercises feel great. Add in deep breathing and meditation, and it’s a surefire way to reduce stress. For a summery twist, find an outdoor yoga class or try Bikram yoga, which involves intense workouts and can lower your risk of anxiety disorders by 25%. Plus, yoga boosts overall well-being and can help manage chronic illness symptoms.
Music is essential for any summer activity, whether you’re relaxing by the pool or having a barbecue. While you might usually go for upbeat tunes, consider adding some calming music to your playlist. Research shows that soothing songs can lower blood pressure, decrease anxiety, and reduce your heart rate.
Gardening is another summer activity that can reduce stress. Shopping for flowers, arranging them, and caring for your garden is incredibly calming. Studies suggest gardening can combat depression and anxiety, boost energy, decrease tension, and improve your mood. Anyone can start a garden, whether it’s indoors or outdoors.
Summer is also an ideal time for a getaway. Even if you can’t take a full week off work, try to plan a long weekend trip. Vacations do wonders for stress relief, and they can also make you more productive, healthier, and more likely to stay at your job longer.
Stress often comes from a packed schedule with obligations that don’t interest you, like carpooling, working late, or running errands. This summer, find a hobby you genuinely enjoy. Pick something with repetitive motions, like rowing or knitting, to help block out stressful thoughts. Exercise is also a proven way to reduce stress. Even spending a few minutes a day on your new hobby can significantly lower your stress levels.
To make the most of these changes, you’ll need to reassess your schedule. Identify what’s causing you stress and see what you can eliminate to make room for relaxation or hobbies. Improving your willpower to make these changes is crucial. Once you do, you can quickly add in activities that help you unwind or dedicate more time to hobbies that bring you joy.
While it takes some effort to reduce stress this summer, the benefits are well worth it. You might even find yourself wanting to carry this newfound sense of calm into the fall, winter, spring, and beyond. So, get out there and embrace a stress-free summertime state of mind.
