Something about summer just makes us feel like we have more time.
Maybe you’re a student or a teacher, and you actually have more hours in your day to use as you please once June hits. But maybe you have a year-long job that doesn’t really change with the seasons. Regardless, the extra sunlight hours and warmer temperatures do somehow make everything slow down and stretch out. You absolutely do not want to waste those extra moments, so here are some ways to make the most of your summer.
Volunteer
The best way to make those extra hours count is to use them to help someone else. Depending on how flexible your summers are, you could find a more regular commitment to add some structure back into your day, or you could just find a one-time event that needs extra hands. Google is obviously a great resource, but local churches or libraries can also point you in the right direction.
Explore Your City On Foot
It’s gets darker later now, so instead of curling up with Netflix as your post-work relaxation, take a long walk. Grab a friend or go solo. Either way, you’ll get the benefits from a bit of exercise and you may find a new restaurant or coffee shop to add to your rotation.
Plan An Outdoor Date
It doesn’t matter if you’re meeting up with your significant other, your oldest friend or a new acquaintance. Try a few of these ideas to get your dose of Vitamin D while bonding with people who are important to you.
Check Out A New Workout Class
Especially if you have a more flexible work schedule, summer is the perfect time to check out that spin studio you’ve had your eye on or try that bootcamp class that just feels a little too intimidating after work. Midmorning classes won’t be as full, so you can really get to know the instructor and focus on your performance. Evening and early morning classes will probably be more empty too as regulars head out on vacation.
Run With The Sunrise—Or Sunset
Again, the sunlight! Set your alarm extra early to feel super committed and to avoid the heat, or lace up your sneaks for a nighttime run as the temperatures cool down. Something about early morning or late evening light makes you feel both speedy and relaxed.
Commit To A New Morning Routine
The way we start our days plays a huge role in our attitudes and perspectives. Now that the sun is up earlier, set your alarm just 15 minutes before you are used to, and use that extra time to do something good for your body or mind—some light yoga, journaling, meditation or reading could all put you in the mindset you need to enjoy whatever your day throws at you. If you make it a habit now, those winter blues might just stay away.
Go To A Free Event
Most cities put on tons of free events in the summer. Local shows in the park, free concerts, open museum dates, free food trucks—ask around or read your local newspaper to see what’s being offered in your area. You’ll meet new people, spend time outside and save lots of cash.
Explore A Farmers’ Market
The best way to learn about fresh, seasonal and local produce is to go to the source. Farmers’ markets pop up everywhere in these warmer months. Go with a reusable shopping bag and some cash, and don’t be afraid to ask questions about what’s best. Those farmers know exactly what they’ve grown, and they’ll have great tips on how to prepare any of the things you want to buy.
The worst thing you could do with these warmer months is nothing—you don’t want to look back in September and feel like you wasted your summer. Even without the long, carefree vacations of our childhood, we can still make summer a time for fun and relaxation as long as we create opportunities to do so.
Feature Photo via We Heart It
