For many of us, the summer is a relaxing time. We are more likely to go on vacation, go down the shore and on other fun day trips, visit with friends and family, have more flexible schedules, and spend more time enjoying the outdoors. As the summer comes to a close in the next month, there may be some disappointment and even stress with the return of the structure that the school year (even for adults without kids) brings. Below are 5 tips on how to maintain the relaxation and positive attitude you may have enjoyed this summer:
1. Create a routine to keep you structured and grounded. We do best physically and mentally when we have predictability in our schedule. Make sure to allow enough time for sleep, meals, exercise, and downtime. Be careful not to overschedule yourself with commitments and when possible make sure to choose ones that are important and beneficial to you.
2. You probably spent more time outside in the summer getting exercise whether it was taking walks/jogs, bike riding, swimming, playing outdoor sports, or gardening. Though it may be a little more challenging, there are plenty of ways to get exercise in the fall and winter too. You can take walks in the afternoon when it’s warmest out. Just remember to dress in layers as it gets chillier. You can also join a gym, the YMCA, or take a class at a studio. There are many physical activities you can do inside, including yoga, karate, dance classes, Pilates, swimming in an indoor pool, basketball, and racquet ball to name a few. Of course, you can do workouts at home too. Remember it is importance to keep physically active all year round, because we release endorphins (happy chemicals in our brain) when we exercise that help us feel less stressed and more content. Having an exercise buddy can also help motivate us and keep us accountable.
3. Even though you may be more on a structured schedule during the school year, still make time for relaxation and to destress whether it’s taking time off from work once in a while, watching a favorite TV show at night, getting a massage, or meditating regularly.
4. Continue to make time for hobbies and interests that you enjoy. If your hobbies are specific to the summertime, then find other hobbies to focus on in the fall and winter.
5. Make plans to look forward to whether it’s visits with friends and family, a future vacation (locally or in a warm location), seeing a show/concert, exciting projects around your home, or holiday plans.
These tips should support you with a successful transition to fall by helping you feel less stressed, more relaxed, and positive all year long. If you struggle with chronic stress or sadness, it may be helpful to speak with a professional. If you feel you can benefit from speaking to a professional, call us at (215) 491-7570 to schedule an appointment with one of our clinicians.