Sadly, back-to-school ads are already in full force, signaling the dwindling days of summer. Why does summer always seem to fly by so quickly? However, there is still time to squeeze in a bit more fun and make the most of the next few weeks before the kids are in school and sweatshirts take the place of swimsuits.
Here are a few ideas to extend your summer as long as possible, go out with a bang, and kick off fall with no regrets!
Get out of town (or act like it!). Plan a final getaway, such as a weekend road trip to the beach, lake or mountains. If you stay within a few hours driving distance and go with or visit friends, it can be a cost-effective way to enjoy some R&R away from home. However, you can also plan a mini “staycation” and be a tourist in your own town. Check out a new attraction close to home or take a day trip for a sporting event, fair or concert nearby.
Get outside. Soak up as much sunshine as possible (safely, of course!). Whether it’s a cup of coffee on the front porch, a dip in the local pool, a BBQ with friends, camping in the backyard, gardening or biking at the park, take advantage of the warm weather and extra hours of light before you miss out.
Eat local. Enjoying fresh fruit and vegetables from your backyard or farmer’s market is one of the joys of summertime eating. Try a new recipe with friends this weekend.
Start new traditions. While many of us have longstanding traditions with family and friends, most seem to center around winter holidays, right? What about starting a new family tradition this summer. Whether it’s post-dinner walks for ice cream every Thursday or spreading out a blanket for an outdoor concert at the local park, it’ll be great to have something to reminisce about and look forward to during the dark days of winter.
Make plans with friends. Schedules seem to fill up much more quickly once school and sports and other activities are back in session. Take advantage of everyone’s remaining downtime to get together with friends and family. Plan an informal gathering at someone’s house or meet up at the pool or park.
Prepare for fall. It may seem counterintuitive, but taking time to check a few lingering tasks off your to-do list and organize yourself for the coming season can help ensure you feel relaxed and less stressed as you transition to fall.
Do nothing! And by that, we mean take time to RELAX. It can be one of the hardest challenges to clear your mind and not try to cram too much into your limited time. Instead, spend time in a hammock or chair outside and let your mind wander while enjoying the remaining warm nights.
Fall might be right around the corner, but it’s not too late to make the most of the remaining month of summer.
If you’re a Health Advocate member with access to our EAP+Work/Life Program, your Work/Life Specialist may have a few other ideas to keep stress at bay for a bit longer and make the most of the rest of your summer.
