12 Summer Self-Care Ideas for a Feel-Good Summer

Summer is a time of fun, relaxation, and sunshine. However, with the increase in outdoor activities and social gatherings, it can also be a busy and overwhelming season. That’s why it’s important to prioritize self-care during the summer months.

Self-care means taking care of yourself both physically and mentally. It involves activities that help you de-stress, recharge, and improve your overall well-being.

Regardless of your age or lifestyle, self-care should be a top priority, especially during the summer when the heat and humidity and busy schedules can take a toll on your health and well-being. Here are 12 fun summer self-care ideas to try out:

1. Spend Time Outdoors

Take advantage of the warm weather and spend some time outside and be surrounded by nature. Going for a walk, having a picnic in the park, or simply sitting in your backyard, and the fresh air and vitamin D from the sun will do wonders for your mood and overall health.

Summer is also the perfect time to get grounded. Connecting with the Earth helps to center and calm your mind, and can be as simple as taking your shoes off and standing barefoot on the grass or sand. Just 10 minutes of grounding can reduce stress levels and improve sleep quality.

Spend time in nature, walk barefoot on the grass, or sit under a tree. And you will notice the benefits of spending time outdoors on your well-being. And don’t forget sunscreen to help protect your skin from the sun’s harmful rays.

Depending on where you live, sunscreen with at least SPF of 30 is recommended, and make sure to reapply every 2 hours if you’re spending an extended period of time outside to prevent sun damage on your skin.

2. Stay Hydrated

It’s crucial to drink plenty of water during the summer months as the heat can easily lead to dehydration. Keep a refillable water bottle with you at all times and aim to drink at least 8 glasses of water a day.

Other ways to stay hydrated include incorporating hydrating fruits and vegetables into your diet, such as watermelon, cucumber, and celery. You can also try drinking herbal teas or infused water for a refreshing twist.

Another great way to stay hydrated is by consuming hydrating foods such as watermelon, berries, cucumbers, and leafy greens.

Not only will staying hydrated help you beat the heat, but it can also improve your skin and overall health. Cucumber-infused water can also be used as a refreshing face mist to cool down on a hot day!

3. Practice Mindfulness

Take some time every day to quiet your mind and focus on the present moment. This can involve meditation, deep breathing exercises, or simply sitting in silence for a few minutes.

Mindfulness has been shown to reduce stress and anxiety while improving overall well-being. It’s especially beneficial during busy summer months when our minds are often racing with plans and activities.

4. Try Outdoor Yoga

Yoga is a great way to combine physical activity with mindfulness. Taking your yoga practice outdoors adds an extra element of grounding and connection with nature.

Look for outdoor yoga classes in your community or find a peaceful spot in nature to practice on your own. Not only will you get a great workout, but you’ll also feel more centered and connected to yourself.

Additionally, yoga can help your body to function at its best, improving flexibility and strength while reducing tension and stress in the body. If you’re new to it, try to stick with a routine for a few weeks to experience the full benefits of yoga.

5. Take Good Care of Your Skin

Skincare is a wonderful way to practice self-care, especially during the summer. It is this time of year when your skin needs the most TLC, which stands for “tender loving care.”

Be sure to wear sunscreen, drink plenty of water, and moisturize often. Make sure to wear sunscreen every day, even if you don’t plan on spending time in the sun. Apply it generously and reapply often, especially if you’re sweating or swimming.

Choose light, oil-free moisturizers that won’t clog your pores. And don’t forget to exfoliate regularly to get rid of dead skin cells and reveal the healthy, radiant skin underneath.

6. Wear Light and Flowy Clothing

To stay cool during the summer months, it’s important to wear summer clothes that is light and airy. Natural fabrics such as cotton and linen are great choices, and they will help your skin breathe.

Avoid anything constricting or tight, as this can make you feel hot and uncomfortable. Instead, opt for loose, flowy dresses, skirts, and tops.

Flowy dresses and skirts are also perfect for summer. They look beautiful and they’ll keep you cool — win-win!

If you’re not a fan of dresses or skirts, choose loose-fitting shorts and tank tops that will keep you cool and comfortable all day long.

7. Plan a Digital Detox

With the constant presence of smartphones and social media, it’s important to take breaks from technology every once in a while. Plan a day or weekend where you disconnect from all screens and focus on being present in the moment.

Instead of watching TV after dinner, why not take a walk around the neighborhood or play a board game with your family? These activities may seem simple, but they can help you reconnect with yourself and your loved ones.

Digital detoxes are especially beneficial during the summer when we tend to spend more time outdoors and socializing with others. It’s a great way to unplug and recharge.

8. Indulge in Your Favorite Summer Treats

Summer is the perfect time to enjoy some of your favorite treats guilt-free. Whether it’s ice cream, fresh fruit, or BBQ, allow yourself to indulge without feeling guilty. Oh, talking about BBQ, if you plan to host a backyard BBQ, be sure to include plenty of healthy options such as grilled veggies and lean proteins. 

Enjoying your favorite summer treats in moderation can help you satisfy cravings while still maintaining a balanced diet. Plus, food is often associated with happy memories, so indulge in those summer favorites and make memories that will last.

Also, make a point to visit your local farmers’ market or go fruit picking to get the freshest produce possible. You will not only be supporting local businesses, but you’ll also get to enjoy delicious and nutritious treats.

Seasonal fruits and vegetables are also more affordable, so it’s a great way to save money on groceries, especially if you’re planning on hosting summer gatherings or eating more healthily.

9. Take a Vacation

If you have the means, plan a vacation during the summer months. Whether it’s a weekend getaway or an extended trip, taking a break from daily life can do wonders for your mental health.

To fully relax and unwind, consider going somewhere without internet access so you can completely disconnect from technology and focus on being present in the moment.

A road trip, if you have access to a car, is also a great way to explore new places and take in the beauty of nature. Plus, it’s an opportunity for quality time with loved ones or just some much-needed alone time.

Even if you can’t afford to travel, a staycation can also be a great option. Treat yourself to spa days, explore your local area, and take advantage of any free or low-cost activities happening in your community.

10. Or a Staycation

Unless you are planning to stay in your hometown and do nothing, there are also a few things that you should put into consideration when preparing for your staycation. First, find a comfortable and relaxing place to stay, whether it’s at home or at a nearby hotel.

Next, plan out activities that you can enjoy with your family or friends. This could include going on local hikes, having picnics in the park, exploring new neighborhoods, trying out new restaurants and cafes, or just spending quality time together. You know, just unleash your creativity and make the most of your staycation!

Lastly, make sure to set boundaries and truly take this time away from work and other responsibilities. Treat your staycation as if you were actually traveling somewhere else and allow yourself to fully relax and recharge.

11. Try a New Morning Routine

Take a second look at your morning routine and see if there’s anything you can change to make it more enjoyable. Maybe you can sleep in a little later or take a leisurely stroll after breakfast. Maybe you want to get up a few minutes earlier than normal to read or journal.

A new summer self-care routine, for example, could include waking up early to watch the sunrise, enjoying a cup of iced coffee on your porch, or going for a morning swim before starting your day.

It can help you feel more energized and set a positive tone for the rest of your day. Plus, it’s an opportunity to try out new self-care practices that will benefit your overall well-being.

Whatever it is, use this time to find a morning routine that works for you and stick with it. Having a set routine will help you feel more relaxed and productive throughout the day. Anything that can help you start your day on the right foot is worth trying!

12. Prioritize Self-Care

No matter what season it is, taking care of yourself should always be a priority. Make time for activities that bring you joy and help you relax, whether it’s reading a book, going for a walk, or having some fresh flowers for yourself just because!

Don’t feel guilty about taking breaks or prioritizing your own well-being. Self-care is essential for maintaining good mental and physical health all year round.

An at-home spa day, for example, can help you unwind and rejuvenate. You have a summer playlist? Then play it and enjoy the music while reading a good book or taking a bubble bath.

Also, make sure to listen to your body and give it what it needs. This could mean taking rest days from exercise or allowing yourself to indulge in some comfort food.

In the summer months when life tends to get busier and more hectic, it’s even more important to make self-care a priority. So don’t forget to take care of yourself and make time for the things that bring you happiness.

To Sum Up

Seasonal self-care, whether it’s during the summer or any other time of year, is all about taking care of yourself and indulging in activities that promote relaxation and happiness throughout the entire year. It’s also about finding balance and setting boundaries to ensure that you don’t burn out.

By following these tips, you can make the most out of your summer and take care of your mental, physical, and emotional well-being. So go ahead and enjoy some sunscreen, flowy dresses, delicious treats, and plenty of self-care!

Frequently Asked Questions

Have some questions in your mind about summer self-care? Here are some FAQs to help you out and provide you with some additional tips and information.

Q: How often should I practice self-care during the summer?

A: There is no set rule for how often to practice self-care. It’s important to listen to your body and needs, but as a general recommendation, try to incorporate at least one self-care activity into your daily routine.

Q: Is it okay to indulge in my favorite treats all the time during the summer?

A: It’s important to have balance and moderation when indulging in treats. While it’s perfectly fine to enjoy them occasionally, make sure you’re also incorporating nourishing foods into your diet.

Q: Can I still practice self-care if I don’t have much free time during the summer?

A: Absolutely! Self-care doesn’t have to be time-consuming or expensive. Find small moments throughout your day to take care of yourself, whether it’s a few minutes of meditation or a short walk outside.

Q: How can I stay cool and comfortable during the hot summer months?

A: Some tips for staying cool and comfortable include wearing light, breathable clothing, drinking plenty of water, and taking breaks in shaded or air-conditioned areas. Don’t forget to also practice sun safety by wearing sunscreen and limiting exposure during peak hours.

Q: How do you take care of your mental health in the summer?

A: Some ways to take care of your mental health during the summer include practicing self-care, setting boundaries and saying no to overwhelming commitments, staying active and getting outside, and seeking support from loved ones or a professional if needed.

Your mental clarity and well-being are just as important as your physical health, so don’t neglect taking care of your mind during the summer season.

Q: How to do a self-care day for yourself?

A: A self-care day can be tailored to your individual needs and preferences, but some ideas include taking a relaxing bath or shower, pampering yourself with skincare or haircare treatments, practicing mindfulness through activities like yoga or meditation, treating yourself to your favorite foods or drinks, and indulging in activities that bring you joy.

Remember to also disconnect from technology and focus on being present in the moment. So go ahead and plan a self-care day for yourself!