Embrace Soft Summer with Slow Living and Self-Care
Summer is here, and it's time to soak up the sunshine and warmth. If you’re craving a season filled with calm, joy, and connection, you're in the right place. Here’s how you can create your own soft summer, focusing on activities and self-care practices that will leave you feeling refreshed and blissful.
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31 ways to have a soft summer
Slow Mornings
There’s something magical about summer mornings. The air is fresh, and the world is just waking up. Start your summer days with intention. Instead of rushing out of bed and diving into your to-do list, give yourself a slow morning. Here’s how:
Wake Up Early: Enjoy the quiet and peace of the early hours. Watch the sunrise, sip on a warm cup of herbal tea, and breathe in the fresh morning air.
Morning Stretch or Yoga: Gentle stretches or a slow yoga flow can help awaken your body and mind. Focus on your breath and set a positive intention for the day.
Journaling: Spend a few minutes writing down your thoughts, dreams, or things you're grateful for. This simple practice can help centre your mind and set a positive tone for the day.
Nourish Your Body with Seasonal Foods
Eating seasonally is a wonderful way to connect with nature and provide your body with the nutrients it needs. Summer is the perfect time to enjoy fresh, light, and vibrant foods.
Visit a Farmer’s Market: Explore your local farmer’s market for fresh fruits, vegetables, and other local goodies. Not only will you be supporting local farmers, but you'll also discover delicious, seasonal produce.
Hydrate with Infused Water: Keep yourself hydrated with water infused with fruits, herbs, and flowers. Try combinations like cucumber and mint, strawberry and basil, or lemon and lavender. My summer favourite is hibiscus and lime.
Simple Summer Recipes: Summer is the perfect time to enjoy fresh, light, and vibrant foods.Think fun and fresh salads, drinks and snacks.
Connect with Nature
Nature has a profound way of grounding us and bringing us back to the present moment. Make time to connect with the outdoors this summer.
Nature Walks: Take leisurely walks in the park, forest, or by the beach. Leave your phone behind and immerse yourself in the sights, sounds, and smells of nature.
Eat outside: Pack a simple meal and find a peaceful spot to enjoy your food outside. Bring a blanket, a good book, and maybe even a journal to capture your thoughts.
Stargazing: On clear nights, lie down on a blanket and gaze up at the stars. It’s a magical way to end the day and reflect on the beauty of the universe.
Prioritise Self-Care
Self-care isn’t just a buzzword; it’s essential for our well-being. This summer, make self-care a priority with these practices:
Mindfulness and Meditation: Spend a few minutes each day meditating or practising mindfulness. Focus on your breath, notice your surroundings, and allow yourself to simply be.
Creative Hobbies: Engage in activities that bring you joy and allow you to express yourself. Whether it’s painting, gardening, or crafting, find a creative outlet that nourishes your soul.
Spa day: Treat yourself to a spa day at home. Run a bath with Epsom salts and essential oils, put on some calming music, bring snacks and a drink, and take time to refresh and relax.
Meaningful Connections
Summer is a wonderful time to strengthen your relationships and create lasting memories with loved ones.
Host a Gathering: Invite friends and family over for a relaxed get-together. Think garden parties, potluck dinners, or a cosy movie night under the stars.
Quality Time: Spend quality time with those who matter most. Have deep conversations, laugh together, and cherish the moments you share.
Community Involvement: Get involved in your local community. Volunteer for a cause you care about, attend local events, or join a group that aligns with your interests.
Digital Detox
With the constant buzz of notifications and endless scrolling, it’s important to take breaks from our screens to allow ourselves to be more present.
Set Boundaries: Establish specific times of the day when you’re completely unplugged. Use this time to engage in activities that nourish your soul.
Tech-Free Zones: Create tech-free zones in your home, such as the dining area and bedroom. This encourages more face-to-face interactions and restful sleep.
Mindful Consumption: Be mindful of the content you consume. Follow accounts that inspire and uplift you, and unfollow those that don’t.
10 ways to have a Soft Summer
1. Gentle Morning Rituals
There’s something magical about summer mornings. The air is fresh, and the world is just waking up. Begin your day with a mindful morning routine. Take some time for gentle stretching or a short yoga session. Open your windows to let the sun in. Sipping on a cup of herbal tea while journaling can set a peaceful tone for your day, allowing your mind to ease into the day with positivity. I usually write on my gratitude list.
2. Indulge in Nature Walks
Nothing says summer like being outdoors. Find a nearby park or a nature trail, and put on comfy shoes and your favourite summer outfit. The goal here isn’t to break a sweat but to connect with nature. Listen to the birds, feel the sun on your skin, and simply be present. These walks can be incredibly grounding and are perfect for when you need a mental break.
3. Picnic in the Park
Turn an ordinary meal into a delightful experience by having a picnic. Pack some healthy snacks, a comfy blanket, and a good book. Invite a friend or enjoy your own company. Being outside and enjoying simple, wholesome food can make your day feel special and serene.
4. Explore Creative Hobbies
Summer is a wonderful time to explore or revisit creative hobbies. Whether it’s painting, gardening, or crafting, engaging in creative activities can be incredibly soothing. Let go of the need for perfection and enjoy the process. Creating something with your hands can be deeply fulfilling and a great way to express yourself.
5. Enjoy seasonal food
With an abundance of fresh fruits and vegetables in season, it’s the perfect time to practise mindful eating. Prepare colourful, nutritious meals and savour each bite. Eating mindfully helps you appreciate the food more and can turn a simple meal into a moment of joy and nourishment.
6. Books Books Books
There’s nothing quite like getting lost in a good book on a lazy summer afternoon. Choose books that inspire you, make you think, or simply entertain. Create a cosy reading nook, bring the book with you out in the garden or to the beach.
7. Self-Care Rituals
Self-care isn’t just about the occasional pampering; it’s about creating rituals that nurture your body and soul. Consider weekly spa nights at home. Run a bath with essential oils, light some candles, and put on a face mask. Give yourself a manicure or a foot massage. These small acts of self-love can make a big difference in how you feel.
8. Connect with Loved Ones
Summer is a time for connection. Organise small get-togethers with friends or family. Whether it’s garden parties, a game night, or just a casual hangout in summer evenings, spending quality time with loved ones can bring immense joy and relaxation. Focus on deep, meaningful conversations and create beautiful memories together.
9. Embrace Slow Living
Slow living is all about being intentional with your time and energy. This summer, try to slow down your pace. Limit your screen time, be present in each moment, and prioritise activities that truly matter to you. It’s okay to say no to things that don’t serve your well-being.
10. Reflect and Set Intentions
Take some time to reflect on your summer experiences. What brought you joy? What made you feel calm? Use these reflections to set intentions for the upcoming seasons. Maybe you want to continue certain self-care practices or explore new hobbies. Setting intentions helps you stay aligned with what makes you feel your best.
31 ways to have a soft summer
Final Thoughts
Having a soft summer is all about creating a season filled with gentle, fun activities that bring you peace and happiness. It’s about finding beauty in simplicity and allowing yourself to slow down and savour each moment.
What are your best Soft Summer ways? Please share them with me in the comments.
