When summer arrives, there’s often time for fun and freedom. The season also brings a break from our usual routines. However, it’s important to remember that taking care of our mental health is still important. By using some simple strategies, we can make sure to take care of our minds and make the most of this sunny (and hot) season.
Embrace Nature and Sunshine
Summer is full of opportunities to get out in nature. You can enjoy it by getting on the water at one of the many lakes around CENLA, on the Cane River in Natchitoches, or hiking in the Kisatchie National Forest. Spending time in nature has been proven to make us feel better. Take walks in the park, swim, or have a picnic in the sun. Being in nature reduces stress, improves mood, and helps us feel good about ourselves. Make the most of the long summer days by planning outdoor activities that bring you joy and relaxation, like gardening or reading under a tree.
Prioritize Self-Care
Summer is a more laid-back time, but we should still take care of ourselves. Get enough sleep, eat healthy meals, and drink plenty of water. Do things that make you happy and help you relax, like yoga at the Yoga Spot in Natchitoches, LA, or at Yoga Ya Ya in Alexandria, LA, meditation, or enjoying your hobbies. Taking care of yourself is important for your overall well-being. Remember, it’s not selfish to take care of your own needs.
Stay Socially Connected
Summer is a time for being with friends and family. Spending time with loved ones is important for our mental health. Plan to meet up with friends, have outdoor activities together, or try new things with others. Loneliness can make us feel sad, so it’s good to have people around who care about us. Being connected to others helps us feel supported, reduces stress, and makes us feel like we belong.
Practice Mindfulness and Relaxation
Even though summer can be busy, it’s important to take time to relax. Try mindfulness and relaxation techniques. You can meditate, do deep breathing exercises, or engage in activities like painting at Whimsical Art Painting Parties, writing in a journal, or taking photos. These activities help you stay focused on the present moment, reduce anxiety, and clear your mind. By finding moments of calm during the busy summer, you’ll be able to handle stress better and enjoy the season to the fullest.
Seek Professional Support, If Needed
If you’re still struggling with your mental health, don’t hesitate to ask for help. Trained therapists and counselors at Be Inspired Counseling and Consulting in Natchitoches, LA, and Alexandria, LA, can give you support and guidance. They can help you develop coping strategies, navigate your emotions, and work towards better mental health in the long run.
Summer can be a time of joy and rejuvenation, but it’s important to remember that taking care of our mental health is a year-round commitment. By embracing nature, prioritizing self-care, staying socially connected, practicing mindfulness, and seeking professional support if needed, we can have a summer filled with positivity, happiness, and improved mental well-being. Remember, investing in your mental health is a lifelong journey, and every season brings new opportunities for growth.
About The Author:
Christy Pennison, LPC-S, specializes in working with individuals of all ages who struggle with a variety of life’s challenges. She works with a team of highly trained therapists who understand how to help those struggling with difficult emotions find the relief they are seeking. Be Inspired Counseling & Consulting’s mission is to inspire hope for change to help individuals move forward and live fully. Click here to schedule an appointment today.
Other Services Offered at Be Inspired:
Adult counseling isn’t the only service provided at our Alexandria, LA and Natchitoches, LA locations. We also offer online therapy, trauma therapy, and anxiety treatment. In addition, we also offer couples counseling and teen counseling. Feel free to visit our consulting services, FAQ, or blog pages for helpful info!