Summer and Mental Health

Happy first day of Summer. When was the last time you took a beach, pool trip or used water on your mental health day? How often do you allow barriers such as haircare deter you from being in or near water There are healing properties in or near water. Water has always been known to increase happiness and mental health. How can water aid your mental health?

One of the things that we learned for those who deal with Seasonal Depression is that weather plays a part in our health and wellness. Summer also does the same thing. For instance when it comes to the Summer we tend to be more relaxed and free. There is so much we can take into from the Summer into our daily lives. So how can the Summer help you in your mental health?

Summer and Freedom

It may be the warmer weather or the ability to want to free up the schedule for fun that makes the Summer months a little more low key. Even for those who do not particularly like the heat of the Summer months can’t deny the freedom that comes with it. Many jobs also have a relaxed schedule so that employees can better manage their time off. In the blog, Monday Motivation: Warmer months I give suggestions on working and time management. Schools are off so parents are working to find suggestions for summer fun. Time seems to slow down as we do things like get outside more. All of this contributes to a more uplifted feeling.

Summer Enjoyment

For those who like to do things like barbeque, have picnics, and more-food choices are increased with the flow of Summer. I for instance do a lot of grilling of meats to last during the week. It also helps with keeping the house cooler. Water play is another enjoyable moment for many in the Summer. Getting to the pools, beaches, and more helps with our mindset. Water has healing properties to it. A few suggestions when it comes to water play. If you have small kids please be mindful of how they interact with water. Unfortunately too many children will succumb to water related injuries. Also if you can be sure to also get yourself swimming lessons if you need them. There’s no shame in the inability to swim.

Summer Water Aerobics

Not only can water aerobics help with your physical and health goals, but it also aids in mental health. Working out in general promotes adrenaline. Adding water aerobics can be restorative. We will burn more calories in water than air due to the gravity associated with water. As you work out in the water, it decreases depression and improves mood. Also, the social aspect of being around others while doing your water aerobics is another benefit. It is a lot of fun moving with the music in water knowing that you are trying something that is different, especially if you have a fear of being in water and you overcome that fear.

Water Yoga

Whether you do water yoga inside or out it can be a great way to get moving, help with mental health, and aid in joint pain and more. It only takes enough water that goes to your hip making this a great alternative for those who aren’t quite comfortable in water in general. It’s done in the shallow end of the pool giving you more confidence as you stretch and move.  Poses can be altered if you have equipment or not. The same benefits as mindfulness, quality sleep, and more go hand in hand. Some people also opt out for yoga in the water but complete it near the water.

Beach and Pool Time

If you do not like being submerged in the water, there’s something about being near the bodies of water that is calming. Many take books with them and sit by the pool. The sounds of water splashing, or the waves crashing are helpful in making many feel relaxed. If you aren’t a water person, consider doing something relaxing by being nearby. Plan a beach or pool day and make it a day of fun. Music and food can be enjoyed near water such as a pool party or luau.

Summer Food

Grilling, icecream, or even carnival food are all signals that Summer has arrived. Embrace it. Balance your health goals accordingly. However, do not completely deprive yourself of eating the dishes that make you happy.

As you can see you can do physical activity in water, stay close to water, or make a beach or pool day to help you feel good, relaxed, and increase mindfulness. If you don’t know how to swim, I encourage you to take lessons. However, no matter what level of water play you enjoy, make sure you enjoy all of the vibes that come from the Summer. Happy Summer!