We’re halfway through the summer–not in terms of seasons, which mark August 7 as the official midpoint of summer, but based on the school break we experienced yearly when we were students and that we now get to relive with our kids. This halfway point is when summer fatigue starts to peak, and you wonder how you’ll get through it.
Don’t panic. You will.
Summers can be tough on parents. While they offer freedom and spontaneity to kids, they also present parents with a variety of challenges. Halfway into it, kids start getting bored–and complaining about it. The lack of routine takes a toll. And thanks to camps and family vacations, expenses go up.
Here are six tips to help you adjust your mindset and get through the summer in one piece.
1. Engage in Mindful Activities
Take leisurely walks on the beach, practice yoga outside, or sit in a park and immerse yourself in the beauty of your surroundings. These activities help you stay in the present moment and reduce stress.
2. Prioritize Self-Care
Amid inconvenient schedules and bored children, it’s essential to carve out time for self-care. Practice meditation, listen to music you love, write in your journal, dedicate time to a hobby, or pamper yourself with a spa day. The key is to prioritize activities that recharge and rejuvenate you.
3. Embrace Nature's Healing Power
Spend time outdoors. Go to the beach. Take a long drive in the mountains. Bike through a lovely neighborhood or park. Visit a farm. The sights, sounds and smells of nature have a profound impact on our mental wellbeing and soothe our souls.
4. Cultivate Positive Relationships
Surround yourself with positive, supportive individuals who uplift you and inspire personal growth. Plan social gatherings and engage in meaningful conversations.
5. Practice Gratitude
Take a moment each day to reflect on the things you’re grateful for. It could be as simple as a beautiful sunset, a roof over your head, a car that takes you where you need to go, or the support of a friend. Expressing gratitude rewires your brain to focus on the positive aspects of life, fostering a sense of contentment and wellbeing.
6. Seek Intellectual Stimulation
Challenge yourself intellectually by reading informative or inspiring books and articles, exploring new hobbies, watching documentaries or enrolling in online courses. Stimulating your brain keeps it agile and active, enhancing your cognitive abilities and providing a sense of fulfillment.
By incorporating these tips into your life, you can cultivate a resilient, balanced mind that serves you not only during summer but throughout the year.
Happy rest of the summer!
