Breathe Into Summer
Mindful ways to relax, restore and rejuvenate your mind, body and soul this season
What are your plans this summer?
With longer days and warmer weather, there are more opportunities to ease into a gentler routine and enjoy the beautiful outdoors. It’s also a perfect time to focus on self-care.
I know summer officially began last week, but likely because I work in education, I never truly feel like it’s here until the school year finishes. Now that the end of June has arrived, I feel myself breathing a little slower, deeper and more intentionally. It’s finally time to relax and let go a little.
In addition to year-round wellness activities (meditation, reading, journaling, yoga, etc.) here are few summer wellness ideas to add into the mix:
Relax outdoors - Get off your indoor couch and find a lawn chair or blanket and set yourself up outside instead. Add a good summer book to read and a cup of iced tea for a perfect afternoon.
Go for a walk/hike: Walking in green space is good for us at any time of the year. If it’s hot outside, then why not try early morning or dusk in the evening? Depending on where you live, though, don’t forget bug repellent if you’re heading into the woods. :)
Eat/Picnic outside: Taking a picnic lunch with you on a walk is delightful or you can eat in your own backyard. The idea is to move your meal outside to enjoy the fresh air and a change of scenery.
Go to the beach: There’s something about being near water that is very soothing. Why not make a day trip to a local beach? If there isn’t one near you, is there a lake or pond you could visit?
Home or community gardening: Gardening is a wonderful way to engage in mindfulness. If you don’t have a garden at home, is there a community garden you could spend time in?
Start a new home exercise or mindful yoga practice: We typically have more time and energy in the summer and it’s a perfect time to try a new form of exercise or add something new to your current routine. Check out local community programs or go on YouTube and explore exercise that is appropriate for you. Exercise always gets the endorphins flowing through your body and helps you de-stress and calm your nervous system. It’s good for mind, body and soul!
Plan a vacation or staycation: Depending on where you live, travel may still be restricted due to the pandemic. If so, why not plan a fun “staycation”? A vacation at home can be very restorative as long as you disconnect and really take time to focus on yourself.
At-home spa day: Get out your candles, essential oils and relaxing music. Run yourself a bubble bath. Give yourself a pedicure. Pretend you’re at the spa!
Get creative: Summer is a perfect time to start a new hobby. Write, draw, paint, sculpt, quilt, etc. Learn a musical instrument or new language. Take a course - there are thousands of online courses to choose from if you can’t find anything local. Get out your camera and take pictures. Try a new craft. There is no limit to what you can create!
Finally, remember to take time to be still and do nothing at all. Just sit with your breath and do absolutely nothing.
Happy summer everyone!
I’d love to hear from you so please send any comments or questions to me at sharon@sharonashtonmindfulyoga.com. Feel free to share this email with anyone else who may be interested.
Are you interested in life change & mindset coaching? If you are interested in exploring new ways to bring joy into your world and live your best life, please email me to set up a complimentary 30 minute coaching session/discovery call at sharon@sharonashtonmindulyoga.com or visit my website coaching page.
You can download your free Find Your Inner Coach Guide including a guided visualization and journal prompts here:
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“When Sharon and I started working together, I was surprised by how quickly I started seeing changes and results. Her coaching has helped me gain confidence in my professional life and I now feel like I have what it takes to keep operating my business on a daily basis, while staying true to my values. Through heart-centred conversations and guidance, Sharon always has the right words. I definitely recommend her services.” — Vicky Drolet, Quebec, Canada
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You are also invited to join my free Facebook group The Journey Within Mindful Yoga and Life Change Community here where we can connect to share resources and short mindful yoga and meditation practices: