As much as most of us want to picture ourselves having relaxing, restful summers and enjoying time outside or slowing down with family and friends – in reality, summer often becomes a busy, even stressful time.
Prolonged amounts of stress can lead to health problems such as:
However, there are lots of good opportunities to cut down on stress during the summer. We’ll discuss some of the ways you can do that below.
1. Exercise
The weather is warming up, and there are so many great ways to get active. The summer is the perfect time to try a new activity that will get your body moving. Get your friends and family involved too!
Not only is exercise great for your body and overall health – it is extremely beneficial for your mental health as well and can decrease stress levels.
2. Get enough sleep
Too much stress can lead to not enough
sleep, which can then cause more stress! Since the two go hand in hand it is so important to make sure you get enough sleep at night. Creating and sticking to a routine can play a big role in ensuring you get the sleep you need each night.
You can also try some de-stress activities before going to bed such as reading a book, drinking non-caffeinated tea, or taking a warm bath. A stress-free mind will ensure a peaceful night’s rest.
3. Spend time with friends and family
There are times when certain social situations can cause more anxiety or stress. But often it is helpful to spend time with
loved ones who we feel safe and comfortable with. Talking through whatever is on your mind can help put things into perspective, and your loved one may be able to offer helpful advice, or simply be there to listen.
4. Declutter
Maybe life was too busy to get some good spring cleaning in. Try some summer cleaning instead! Having a clean space can make a big difference in your mental state. You can also take some time to declutter your calendar and get your summer plans organized. Having everything you need to do well planned out can save you stress in the future.