Fleeting Summer Days
As the days begin to grow noticeably shorter and the nights turn cooler, it's high time that we make the most of the final weeks of summer. Embracing this last stretch of the season can be a refreshing experience, allowing us to soak up the sun and enjoy the outdoors before we transition to the beginning of fall on September 22nd. As a way to celebrate and encourage more time for making memories, here are our top favorite 4 ways to spend our fleeting summer days.
1. Plan Outdoor Activities that you Love
For many of us, the coming seasons can signal the time to retreat indoors and find refuge in the cozy and warm. During this last 6 weeks of summer and with the weather still warm, we encourage you to take advantage of the outdoors by planning for activities that you love. For me, that means hiking my favorite trails, having a picnic on the Blue Ridge Parkway complete with views that go on for days and sneaking in a last minute trip to the beach for a day of toes in the sand. Research shows that spending time in nature can help both cognitively and physically. Spending time in nature has been shown to help reduce the tension and anxiety that can be felt due to sensory overload. It has also been shown to help improve our moods, boost overall well-being and help to regulate our sympathetic nervous system in as little as 5 minutes of exposure to the natural world.
2. Savor Seasonal Produce
Another way to soak in the last weeks of summer is to visit your local farmer's market to stock up on fresh, seasonal fruits and vegetables. I feel very fortunate to live close to many farms that work tirelessly to produce the very best for our community. When you enjoy the abundance of summer produce like juicy watermelon, ripe tomatoes, sweet corn, and vibrant berries, you are supporting your health with nutrient-rich foods along with supporting those who grow food locally. During the end of the season you might find an over abundance of fresh fruits and veggies as summer draws to a close. With these extras, we the love to make homemade jam that will be enjoyed as we shift seasons or homemade salsa as a delicious taste of summer.
3. Host a Summer Send-Off Party
Another way to embrace the season is to host a gathering with your friends and family for a fun-filled summer send-off party. You can do a potluck where everyone brings a dish that reminds them of summer or fire up the grill, mix up some refreshing beverages and host your own celebration. It is always nice to enjoy good company in a comfortable outdoor space. For us, we love playing yard games, making s'mores over the fire and creating memories to celebrate the end of summer in style.
4. Take a Staycation
If traveling isn't an option but would like to take advantage of the health benefits of a getaway, consider taking a staycation in your own city. Making sure to pencil in your vacation days before the year is over is an essential to your overall mental health. We love to recommend exploring your local community by trying a new restaurant, checking out a new art exhibit or booking a relaxing and much deserved spa day. Anything that takes you away from the daily routine. When we take time to unwind and explore it can provide benefits to your mind and body from unplugging and tuning into yourself, leaving you more refreshed when you return to your responsibilities.