Looking After Your Mental Wellbeing in Summer: 5 Essential Tips
Summer is around the corner, and with it, endless parties, BBQs, social events, beach days, and trip planning. But don’t forget that in such a whirlpool of activities and plans, your mental health can take a toll. As the pandemic continues to blow over, WHO’s latest reports show a whopping 25% increase in anxiety and depression cases - and this upwards trend is not showing signs of slowing down.
But the summer months should also be a time dedicated to resting and replenishing energies. Here are five unmissable tips to look after your mental health while making the most of the months ahead.
Plan Ahead and Take Time To Rest
If you tend to feel more stressed during the summer than in winter, you are not alone. According to recent statistics, over a third of Americans deem the summer months as the most stressful time of the year. But don’t we all dream about long, relaxing afternoons by the seaside?
Undoubtedly, summer holidays can be relaxing - but summer is often characterized by increased event planning and social meetings. All of this contributes to making summer the busiest time of the year and causes a spike in levels of stress and anxiety. Make sure to be aware of this and start planning in advance to reduce the load over the upcoming season.
Embrace a Routine of Self-Care
While summer can be an extremely busy season, you should always find time for self-care rituals in your routine. Especially if you are dating, in a relationship, a busy parent, or a fempreneur, the chances are that you are already struggling to find time for yourself.
However, between events, parties, and other events, you should make an effort to find time in your busy schedule and dedicate at least an hour a day to yourself.
Exercise and Move Your Body Daily
Exercising can work wonders for your mental health and emotional wellbeing. But what if you are not so much of a fitness person? Luckily, you don’t need to spend hours in the gym or lifting weights to reap the benefits of moving your body. For example, you might consider taking daily walks, practicing yoga, or even visiting a nearby park.
There are endless activities that you can take on during the summer months to keep your body active and your mind healthy. Don’t forget that as the temperature rises, spending time outdoors becomes even easier!
Practice Meditation
Daily meditation sessions - even if they are only 2-5-minute long - can help you lower stress levels, build self-awareness, reduce anxiety, and improve your outlook on your lifestyle and social circle.
Additionally, meditating can help you utilize the energy that comes from stress and channel it for a good cause!
Speak to a Specialist
Changing your lifestyle and diet can yield great results and help you improve your mental health and emotional wellness. However, in some cases, nothing can replace the help that a professional can offer. If in doubt, make sure to contact a specialized team - such as the experts at Sunnyside Clinic - to start working towards better overall health.
