Summer is that time when we can finally breathe. When the sun is shining and school is out, the opportunities are endless. You may have a summer internship or job. You might be in the beginning stages of a budding summer romance. Or maybe you’re settling in for some rest and relaxation this summer. Whatever it may be, don’t forget to take some time for yourself. Try out any or all of these suggestions for 5 ways to love yourself this summer.
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Reconnect
It’s easy to get carried away and swept away in the everyday stresses that seem to consume us at times. But don’t lose sight of relationships that mean something to you. If there’s a friend or group of friends you’ve lost touch with but really wish you hadn’t, reach out. Be the one to make the first move and suggest a lunch out or a walk in a nearby park. People often define our experiences, so don’t let the ones that truly mean something to you slip away. Reconnect. You won’t regret it.
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Challenge Yourself
Summer for me often means a nice, healthy, much-needed detox. Take advantage of the sunshine and the time off to challenge yourself physically. Even if rigorous exercise isn’t your thing, you can find something that’s more up your alley. Try out a new hiking spot, take a barre class, run a half marathon or try a week-long yoga retreat. It doesn’t matter what you do, but do something. Something you’ve never done before and maybe something that scares you just a little. The biggest risks often have the biggest
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Have a Dinner Party!
During the summer I find myself eating out a lot. And eating at a restaurant is harder to control portion size and the ingredients that go into the food. As a fun social alternative to eating out, plan a dinner party in your backyard with a healthy and seasonally fresh menu! Feel good about what you’re putting in your body and enjoy the company of your besties right in your backyard!
For some healthy inspiration check out: http://www.cookinglight.com/ and http://www.skinnytaste.com/
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Take a Chance
There’s a cute guy at the local coffee shop that always flirts with you every time you come in. Or maybe you can’t help but lock eyes with the hot lifeguard whenever you’re at the pool. Wherever your new summer cutie may be, take a chance with him! Ask him out or suggest that he come to a group activity you and your friends are doing. If he says no or gets awkward, no harm done. You don’t really need to see him again. But if he says yes (!) then hooray! The risk paid off and now you have a date with the cutie you’ve been eyeing all summer! Summer is the time for romance (if you ask me), so give it a whirl.
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WRITE
Writing is therapeutic and an amazing creative outlet. Whatever your writing style may be, do it. Write a letter to your best friend from college whom you’re missing dearly. Write a letter to your mom even if you’re living her house with her. People always feel so special when they receive a handwritten note. Write down your thoughts and feelings in a journal. Jot down daily though, quotes and songs that inspire you. Handwritten things are becoming such a rarity anymore, but they are truly sacred. There is something very special about seeing someone’s handwriting when we’re so used to communicating via screens. Just write. You will feel more empowered and collected getting your thoughts down
The moral of the story here is that self-love comes in many shapes and sizes. The bottom line is this: do what makes you feel good. Life is too short to live it any other way.
For more on self-love check out this badass blog on radical self-love: http://galadarling.com/