Many people think of summer as a time to slow down and relax. But more often than not, summer is just as busy as any other season. With kids not in school and work colleagues on vacation, it can be easy to get run down from the everyday stresses in your life. 

This summer while you are busy taking care of everyone and everything at home and work,  make sure you are taking care of yourself. Use some of these summer self-care tips to keep yourself happy and healthy.

Plan Some Summer Fun

Does it seem like everyone you know is planning a summer vacation? A long weekend away? A day trip somewhere new? How about you do the same? Plan a getaway to give yourself a break from the daily grind. It doesn’t need to be a long vacation – whatever you can manage will work. 

Say No When Needed

This summer you may find that your boss asks you to pick up extra projects while co-workers are on vacation. Kids may ask for rides to friends’ homes after you’ve worked a long day. You may receive invitations to barbecues and get-togethers. And sometimes you may have too much on your plate or be too tired to take on anything else. That’s when it’s time to say no. A simple “no” can alleviate unneeded stress.

Read a Good Book

Studies have shown that reading reduces stress – even if only for six minutes per day. So this summer take advantage of those great summer reading lists that come out each year. Dedicate a few minutes each day to read a great book. You’ll appreciate this time to yourself.

Incorporate More Fruits and Vegetables Into Your Diet

Robert Urich said, “A healthy outside starts from the inside.” Practice some self-care this summer by incorporating more fruits and vegetables into your diet. Summer is the perfect time to do this as the farmers’ markets are full of fresh fruits and vegetables picked in their prime. Pick up some of your favorites and add them to your meals.

Take a Social Media Pause

Is social media stressing you out? It might be – and you may not even realize it. Social media can lead to feelings of anxiety, envy, and sadness. It can also be a huge consumer of your time. Set some boundaries this summer with social media. Set specific times when you are not going to engage with social media. It may be hard at first, but you’ll probably love how you feel after a few days.

Ask for Help

Guess what? While you may love to try and do everything – sometimes you just can’t. That’s why asking for help is a crucial part of self-care. Do you need help with getting the kids to camp? Or, with a project at work? Don’t see asking for help as a sign of weakness, it’s actually a sign of strength and self-awareness.

Spend Time With Friends

If you need a little laughter or someone to talk to – seek out your friends. Plan a low-stress get-together with them. A potluck meal, a quick walk in the park, or dinner at a restaurant that you all love can be great ways to connect. Time spent with friends is always enjoyable.

Try Something New

If you want to get your mind off of your current stresses, then take the time to try something new. Learn a new hobby or try a different exercise class or take cooking lessons. Your brain will love the challenge of a new hobby.

Don’t let this summer stress you out. Start practicing self-care right now so you can avoid a summer meltdown. You (and those around you) will be glad you did!