Learning to Embrace the Beauty of Summer

I am a born and bred northeast girl and while I love the being able to experience all four seasons of the year, summer is undoubtedly my least favorite of them all. I hate the sticky, sweaty, bug filled days and admittedly, I spend most of the season simply longing for it to end. But as I’ve gotten older and become more aware of just how fleeting time is, I’ve come to realize that wishing away days (even summer days) takes away from the fullness and joyfulness of life. An integral part of building happiness is learning how to savor the present moment, so rather than spend the summer months grumbling, I decided to shift my mindset and practice embracing the season in the hopes that I could enjoy it more fully.

While autumn will always be my one true love, I realized that summer does have some wonderful things to offer and enjoy as well. Long sun-kissed days, gentle breezes that whisper promises of relaxation and rejuvenation, a much needed break from the routines and chaos of the school year, as well as more time to spend with family and friends . It truly is a time of year when the world seems to collectively exhale, slow down, unwind, and savor the simple joys of life. In our fast-paced, “go-go-go” world where hustle culture often reigns supreme, summer offers us a precious opportunity to hit the pause button and reconnect with ourselves and our surroundings. For me, the greatest gift of summer is its invitation to immerse myself in nature’s embrace. When the weather is favorable, I love to get outdoors so that I may appreciate the full bloom of nature all around me. I enjoy leisurely hikes through the lush forests where I live, or picnicking in the park, or spending time capturing the beauty of it all with my camera. Nature beckons me to slow down and appreciate its beauty before the shorter days of autumn and winter arrive and Mother Nature rests. The warm sun on my skin, the chirping of birds overhead, and the rustling of leaves in the breeze all serve as gentle reminders for me to be present in the moment and to savor it all.

If you’re like me and struggle to get through the dog days of summer, think about some ways you can shift your own mindset around the season so that you can more fully embrace its essence of warmth and leisure. Perhaps, start by exploring outdoor activities like swimming, hiking, or simply lounging at the beach to soak up the sun. Organize a picnic with friends at a park or host a barbecue for your neighbors. Stay cool by indulging in refreshing treats like ice cream or fruit smoothies or take a dip in the pool. Make time for relaxation by reading a good book under a shady tree or taking leisurely strolls in the evening when the temperature drops. Capture the vibrant spirit of the season by attending outdoor concerts, festivals, and parades or simply pause to watch its breathtaking sunsets. Above all, begin to cultivate a mindset of spontaneity and adventure, and let summer's carefree vibe wash over you.

As summer unfolds its splendor before us, let us together heed its gentle call to slow down and relax. Let’s practice savoring each moment, engaging in more fun, cherishing the company of others, and immersing ourselves in the simple pleasures that this season so generously offers. In doing so, we will not only replenish our mind and body, but we’ll also cultivate a deeper appreciation for the beauty and wonder of summer that is all around us. I’ll always be an autumn girl longing for the days of crisp air and cozy sweaters, but little by little I am learning to embrace the beauty of summer too!