While everyone’s definition of summer is different, it’s undeniable that the longer days and more sunlight present a wealth of opportunity to elevate our wellbeing. We all get a little more push to perform at our best this season when the sun draws us outside.
What motivates you at this time of year ultimately depends on your summer personality, but if you’re anything like us, staying healthy naturally comes first. These warmer months are all about feeling good, from visiting specialty farmers markets for wholesome farm-to-table dinners to incorporating mindful activities into your wellness routine.
The Summer Bucket List for Feeling Well
1. Consider starting a garden.
Starting a garden is a highly meditative and fulfilling summer pastime that will continue to give. Even if you live in an apartment, there are several easy-to-grow herbs that may be planted and potted regardless of how much light your home receives. Set aside a day, get some dirt and seeds, put on your favorite music, and get growing.
Ditch the gloves for an added wellness boost! Digging in dirt releases bacteria from the soil that have been shown to benefit gut and brain health, such as improving mood and reducing anxiety (1, 2). Make sure the soil you use is free of pesticides and of excellent quality, and then get your hands dirty!
2. Test out new summer recipes.
When it comes to health, the food we eat is quite significant. Shifting seasons allow us to experiment with new culinary styles and variations that are more appropriate for the season. Summer is a great time to explore with healthy, fresh dishes and flavors that will help you stay cool.
Invite your closest friends over for a farm-fresh supper party. Visit your local farmers’ market ahead of time to stock up on seasonal and locally grown produce. According to the UN Food and Agriculture Organization, eating seasonally diversifies our food consumption throughout the year, which can help prevent micronutrient deficits (3). As you prepare, set the mood for a delightful evening with friends and healthful, comforting meals.
3. Participate in a summer sports league.
The days of summer sports camps are over. Joining a summer sports team could be the perfect solution if you’re wanting to quell your competitive spirit and are nostalgic about childhood summers. There are tons of incredible ways to get in on the activity and keep in shape this summer, depending on the location you’re in. You can discover a team that interests you in a variety of sports, such as city soccer leagues or beach volleyball.
Make sure your electrolytes are elevated! Summertime heat is severe, so it’s critical to stay hydrated. Thankfully, there are now healthier and better solutions available to us to meet our bodies’ needs for hydration. On the days you know you’ll be active, make sure you have a full cooler courtside. On a sweltering summer day, nothing beats a refreshing beverage.
4. Spend the night under the stars.
A camping vacation is a summertime must. There’s nothing better than resting beneath a starry sky with the sound of crickets lulling you to sleep to truly embrace the season. Imagine the positive effects a full weekend in nature can have on our health and well-being, as studies have shown that spending at least 120 minutes outdoors each week can have (4).
Take a few friends who enjoy outdoor activities, load up your vehicle, and go to the countryside for a rejuvenating few days in the great outdoors. Even while spending time in nature is beneficial, we still need to prepare for the summer heat to feel our best. Before you leave for fun, load up on SPF and make sure your cooler is full of refreshing, healthy beverages.
![Summer Activities Every Wellness Enthusiast Should Do](https://i0.wp.com/jasminefeliciano.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/06/Summer-Activities-Every-Wellness-Enthusiast-Should-Do-pin.png?resize=683%2C1024&quality=80&ssl=1)
To Wrap Things Up
As we welcome the unique opportunities that summer provides, let us make a concerted effort to prioritize our well-being through engaging and fun activities. There are numerous ways to improve our physical and mental health, including planting a garden, trying out new, seasonal dishes, joining sports leagues, and camping beneath the stars.
This season allows the warmth of the sun and the vibrancy of nature to encourage you to do new things and create unforgettable experiences. By doing so, you will not only improve your own health but also strengthen your connection to the world around you. So, prepare to dive into your summer bucket list for a wonderfully fulfilling and healthy season ahead.
Sources |
- The Influence of Gardening Activities on Consumer Perceptions of Life Satisfaction in: HortScience Volume 40 Issue 5 (2005) (ashs.org)
- case–control study of the health and well-being benefits of allotment gardening | Journal of Public Health | Oxford Academic (oup.com)
- Preventing micronutrient deficiencies: food abundance and diversity are fundamental1 (fao.org)
- Spending at least 120 minutes a week in nature is associated with good health and wellbeing | Scientific Reports
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