As the summer holidays unfold across the UK, people are embracing a range of activities from road trips to beach escapes. Whether you’re on a leisurely break or managing your usual responsibilities alongside summer activities, maintaining your wellbeing is key. Here are 20 expert-recommended habits to keep you feeling your best this season:
Watch the Sunrise
Annabel Smith, Life Coach Directory member, suggests making time to watch the sunrise. Set your alarm early, dress comfortably, and enjoy a peaceful start to your day. Use the quiet morning for meditation, journaling, or simply reflecting. Catch up on sleep with a short afternoon nap if needed.
Try Local Produce
Maysie Steadman, health and wellbeing physiologist at Nuffield Health, advocates sampling local fruits and vegetables during your travels. It’s a delicious way to explore regional cuisine and boost your fruit and vegetable intake, which can help reduce bloating and inflammation.
Take Your Teddy Bear
For a touch of home comfort, Lisa Artis, sleep expert and deputy CEO of The Sleep Charity, recommends bringing a familiar item like a teddy bear or pillow. This can ease the disorientation of sleeping in a new place and help you relax.
Take Your Morning Coffee Outside
Lisa Fudio, Counselling Directory member, suggests starting your day with sunlight. Enjoy your morning coffee outdoors or in a sunny spot. This helps regulate your circadian rhythm and improves your mood and sleep quality.
Make Movement Interesting
Lisa Fudio advises integrating fun activities into your movement routine. Try a dance class, family games, or even a short walk while catching up with a friend. Creative and playful movements can enhance physical and mental health.
Explore Your Ikigai
Helen Robinson, Life Coach Directory member, encourages using the summer to discover your “ikigai” or reason for being. Reflect on what drives you and find ways to incorporate these passions into your daily life for a more fulfilling existence.
Stay Hydrated
Lara Buckle, registered nutritionist, emphasizes the importance of hydration. Infuse your water with fruits, herbs, or vegetables to make it more enjoyable and nutritious. Consider adding electrolytes to replenish minerals lost through sweating.
Schedule ‘Blackout’ Nights
To combat screen fatigue, Lisa Fudio suggests designating one night a week for a “blackout,” where you avoid all screens. Use this time for board games, puzzles, or reading to improve mental health and sleep.
Keep Your Morning Alarm
Luke Cousins, physiology national lead at Nuffield Health, recommends maintaining a consistent sleep schedule during holidays. This helps prevent disruptions to your sleep cycle and makes transitioning back to your regular routine easier.
Pack Some Playing Cards
Lisa Artis suggests bringing along activities like playing cards or a notepad. Engaging in calming pre-bedtime activities can aid relaxation and improve sleep quality.
Make What You Need to Do Fun
Lisa Fudio advises finding joy in everyday tasks. Turn chores into enjoyable activities by creating playlists or setting fun challenges, and recognize the satisfaction in completing routine tasks.
Create a ‘To-Be’ List
Helen Robinson recommends focusing on personal aspirations with a ‘to-be’ list, which highlights qualities you want to embody. This approach helps align your actions with your values and enhances overall wellbeing.
Bigger Breakfast, Lighter Lunch
Lara Buckle suggests making breakfast your main meal of the day. Opt for lighter, refreshing lunches like salads or grilled proteins. This approach can aid digestion and help you stay energized throughout the day.
Try New Things
Lisa Fudio encourages exploring new activities to stimulate your brain and boost happiness. Create an “alphabet activities” list and try out different experiences, documenting them for fun and motivation.
Be a Tourist in Your Hometown
Discover new aspects of your local area by exploring nearby attractions or activities you haven’t yet experienced. It’s a great way to enjoy a fresh perspective on your surroundings.
Make Small Changes
Sam Quinn, personal training lead at Nuffield Health, suggests making minor adjustments to your diet and lifestyle to maintain balance. For instance, opt for alcohol-free drinks or share desserts to enjoy summer treats while staying healthy.
Splur@e on a Gadget
Lisa Artis advises investing in gadgets like a small fan to enhance comfort while traveling. A fan can help regulate your body temperature and improve sleep, especially if your accommodation lacks air conditioning.
Review Your Interpersonal Relationships
Helen Robinson emphasizes the importance of evaluating your social connections and communities. Being part of positive environments can enhance your sense of belonging and support mental and emotional health.
Enjoy a Sundowner
Lara Buckle recommends savoring a holiday drink like a piña colada made with high-quality ingredients. While indulgent, enjoying a single, well-made treat can be a delightful part of your summer experience.
Aim for Improvement Rather Than Perfection
Strive for progress in your goals rather than perfection. Setting realistic and achievable targets can reduce stress and help you enjoy the summer more fully.
By incorporating these habits into your summer routine, you can enhance your wellbeing and make the most of this vibrant season.