Embrace the Sun: A Guide to Thriving as Women in the Summer
School is done, summer is here. It is time to slow down and enjoy what this season has to offer. It is the perfect time to experience adventures and relax and recuperate. There are several suggestions I have to make the most of this time; before it runs out… because let’s face it… September will be here before we know it.
1. Celebrate Your Skin
I think it is important to ditch the make-up; we slather it on everyday in our work life. Summer is the opportunity to go back to our natural state. All you need is sunscreen and refreshing moisturizers! It’s also a perfect time to schedule that “treat yourself” spa pampering.
2. Fashion with Flair
Gone are the business casual outfit and replacing them are comfortable lightweight dresses, shorts and comfortable sandals. Summer is also a season of COLOUR and playfulness in terms of clothing.
3. Indulge in Seasonal Delights
Summer is my favourite “food season.” The number of fruits and refreshing drinks that are in season are staggering. What better way to enjoy them, is by having a picnic with your besties.
4. Nurture Your Mind and Body
The way I relax is to reset and go back to the intentional routines I had set earlier in the year but unfortunately abandoned, with the excuse of “I’m just too busy.” Summer is not only the season of laid back fashion and incredible food it is also the season of self-care. Reading, yoga and gardening are the top three ways that I nuture my mind and soul.
5. Explore the Great Outdoors
Summer gives me more of a chance to get outside; winters are long and rough here; and the winter blues can be severe. Summer allows me to go for walks and go fishing and camping with loved ones. It also allows me greater flexibility to see friends and go on adventures in the city or go on quick day trips.
6. Connect and Celebrate Sisterhood
Summer is the season of get-togethers. True, meaningful connection is crucial in our overly technologically connected world. Chances to participate in BBQs, potlucks, picnic and spending time on the many patios of hip restaurants abound. it is important to renew your friendships and share laughs.
7. Reflect and Renew
We often reflect at New Years, but we should and can do this more often. It is shocking how little we check in with ourselves (and others). Summer presents a really good opportunity to check in with ourselves; you can do this at the start, at the end or both. You can reflect on how your year has been to this point, what you want your summer to look like, how your summer has been and how you want to move forward into fall.
In conclusion, make the most of summer in a way that meets your needs; but make sure to stop and smell the roses.