5 Ways to Keep Your Cool in the Summer!
Written by: Becca Samelson-Webb, M.A.
With Memorial Day just around the corner and temperatures rising, that can only mean one thing: summer is coming! The summer can be full of fun with pool parties, beach trips, cookouts, and vacations. But with the fun comes some frustration, as the heat and change in schedules can be difficult to manage! And with these difficulties, it becomes more difficult to regulate emotions. Here’s some tips to help you keep your cool during the summer heat!
1. Hydrate, hydrate, hydrate!
It’s no secret that with the summer heat comes an increased risk of dehydration. Most people are aware of the physical health risks related to dehydration, but not everyone realizes that there can be an emotional or behavioral affect as well. Without enough water, you’ll notice yourself getting grumpy and more easily frustrated. You might also be somewhat sluggish and tired, which can affect motivation to do tasks you need to accomplish. If you struggle with drinking water, find a cute water bottle to bring with you wherever you go. You can also set mini rewards for yourself based on how much water you drink. Additionally, you could always try adding flavors like Liquid IV into your water to get the electrolytes you need.
2. Make a summer goal
If you’re bored, you’re more likely to find yourself irritable. When heading into the hottest months of the year, try to identify a goal for yourself. Some might be athletic, such as frequent exercising, increased outdoor time, or weight loss. Other goals can be based on activities: learn to knit, begin to play an instrument, or perfect a new recipe. Maybe you want to get some tasks done around the house, cleaning out your closets, give away unneeded furniture, or organize your bookshelves. Maybe you want to catch up on reading, learn more about a passion topic, or start to volunteer for a cause you believe in. Whatever you decide, if you have a goal to work towards in the summer, you’ll be less likely to fall into a rut and stay more motivated to find ways to enjoy the summer months.
3. Stick to your sleep schedule
While summer might give you the chance to sleep in, do your best to stick to a consistent sleep schedule. While sleeping in can be tempting, it’s worse for your sleep in the long run to keep changing your sleep schedule. If you normally get up at 8am, try to stick to that schedule, even if you don’t have to. Having a more consistent sleep schedule will help you feel rested and ready to take on the day.
4. Avoid “brain rot”
When you’re on break, you have more free time and that can lead to boredom. In today’s world, people have a difficult time with boredom, filling their time with screens by pulling up their phones or putting on a show the minute there’s nothing to do. However, too much reliance on screens or online content can keep you from making the most of your day. Find ways to relax without using screens, such as reading in the sun, going for a walk, or spending time with friends. Or, as the kids say, go touch some grass.
5. Enjoy yourself!
While I’ve focused mainly on ways to keep yourself more productive and your life more consistent, it’s also important to let yourself have fun. You don’t just have to be productive, you can also relax and enjoy yourself. Spend time with family, go to the beach, have a late-night bonfire, or picnic in the park. Whatever you choose, make sure you spend time doing something fun for yourself over the summer.
Summer gives us an opportunity to take a break from our busy lives and reevaluate our needs. While it’s important to use your time to rest and relax, you can also find ways to use your time to stay motivated, take care of yourself, and give yourself some self-care. With a balance of consistency and relaxation, you can make the most out of summer.