Summer can be an overwhelming season, here are some helpful ways that you can incorporate some summertime self-soothing if you are feeling a bit too "heated":
- Mindful Walking (without distractions- e.g. no phone), allow yourself to wander wherever you desire, straight out your front door/driveway/etc. Choose each turn, as you arrive, checking in with your body and mind, with what direction is desired. Stop to smell the flowers, admire the colors, feel the air on your skin, and stay curious about what your neighbor might be cooking for dinner.
- Breath Work (aka Pranayama). There are SOOOO many different types of breath work, but perhaps the "most simple" (or accessible, for most folks... anyway), is nostril breathing. Simply close your mouth and breathe through your nose. If you want to take this a step further, elongate your exhales (e.g. breathe in for a count of 5, breathe out for a count of 10). A lot of research has been done on the topic, if you are curious about learning more, try checking out the book "Breath" by James Nestor. Or this podcast by Andrew Huberman (https://hubermanlab.com/how-to-breathe-correctly-for-optimal-health-mood-learning-and-performance/)
- Mindful movement practice (with or without distractions :), roll out your yoga mat or a blanket in your living room, backyard, or a park. Allow yourself to move without expectations. If it calls to you, put on a playlist and dance your heart out. Provide yourself the space (and mental curiosity) to explore what is happening for you (with your body/breath/mind) in every moment. This article talks a bit more about different types of mindful movement and how they might benefit all of us https://us.thesportsedit.com/blogs/news/nutrition-what-is-mindful-movement)
- Cold Plunge (please use caution! Do not do this without a buddy/awareness of your surroundings!). You've seen the TikTok's. Perhaps you've heard of the man who is credited with pioneering this method (and combining it with meditative breath work), Wim Hof. Perhaps you can combine this with some FOREST BATHING, for optimal results.
But most importantly, please find gratitude in the moment. And be excellent to each other. :)