Summer often brings thoughts of sunshine, holidays and long, carefree days. But the reality is that many of us still feel stressed, overwhelmed or emotionally drained, regardless of the season.
The good news is that feeling better doesn't always require a complete life overhaul. Sometimes it's the smallest changes, repeated consistently, that make the biggest difference to our wellbeing.
Whether you're looking to reduce stress, lift your mood, improve your energy or simply enjoy the warmer months a little more, these six simple habits can help you slow down, reconnect with yourself and make the most of summer.
Remember, self-care isn't selfish, it's essential. You deserve to feel calm, healthy and happy, and there's no better time than now to start making yourself a priority.
Let's explore six easy ways to help you feel happier, healthier and more like yourself this summer.
1. Reconnect with Nature
One of the simplest and most effective ways to improve your wellbeing is to spend time outdoors. Leave your headphones behind for a while and immerse yourself in the sights, sounds and scents around you. Notice the birds singing, the gentle rustle of leaves in the breeze, the warmth of the sunshine on your skin, and the fresh smell of summer. Nature has an incredible way of calming a busy mind and helping us feel more grounded.
If you enjoy writing or journaling, take a notebook or use the notes app on your phone. Some of my best ideas for blog posts and books have come to me while walking through the peaceful woodland and countryside close to home. There is something about slowing down and allowing your mind to wander that sparks creativity.
Spending time in nature also reminds us to be grateful. Every season offers something beautiful, but summer has a special way of encouraging us to pause, breathe deeply and appreciate the simple things we often overlook.
Take a look at the footpaths, parks, woodlands and nature trails close to where you live. You may be surprised at the hidden gems waiting right on your doorstep. They cost nothing to enjoy, yet they can do wonders for your mental wellbeing and help you embrace everything summer has to offer.
My recommendation: Next time you go for a walk, leave your headphones at home for just twenty minutes. You might be amazed at how much lighter, calmer and more inspired you feel afterwards. 🌿☀️
2. Refresh Your Summer Skin
Summer is the perfect time to give your skin a little extra care. The sunshine, warmer weather and time spent outdoors can leave your skin feeling dry and in need of some TLC, so why not turn your daily moisturising routine into a simple act of self-care?
Choose a nourishing body moisturiser that not only hydrates your skin but also makes you feel good every time you use it. For me, that's Monu Body Moisturiser. I've been using it for years because it leaves my skin feeling incredibly soft, smooth and deeply moisturised without feeling greasy. The fragrance is absolutely beautiful too, and it's one of those little luxuries that instantly lifts my mood.
Remember, self-care doesn't have to be expensive or time-consuming. Sometimes it's the smallest rituals - taking five minutes to care for your skin, breathing deeply and appreciating the moments that remind us we deserve kindness too.
Top Tip: Apply your moisturiser straight after a shower while your skin is still slightly damp. It helps lock in moisture, leaving your skin feeling hydrated, refreshed and ready to glow all summer long. ☀️
3. Riding the Brainwaves.....
Take a few moments each day to slow down. Journal, practise gratitude, or simply sit quietly with a cup of tea. When we slow our thoughts, we create space for clarity, calm and perspective.
Whenever I feel stressed, experience a bout of anxiety (which, if I'm honest, is quite often), or simply need to clear my mind, I retreat to my little cottage garden. I'll sink into my egg chair, close my eyes, feel the warmth of the sun on my face and sometimes listen to the sound of waves gently rolling onto a beach.
It instantly transports me back to a holiday in Spain with my sister. We laid our towels right at the water's edge and spent hours talking as the waves washed in and out beside us. It was one of the most peaceful, comforting moments I've ever experienced, and even now, that memory helps me find my calm.
4. Revamp Your Wardrobe.
Clear out the clothes you no longer wear and donate them to someone who will love them. Chances are you won't miss most of them! Then refresh your look with a couple of new outfits; you don't need to break the bank. When I checked on 1st July, Boohoo had 15% off almost everything and up to 70% off in its Summer Sale, PrettyLittleThing had up to 60% off, and don't even get me started on SHEIN if you're looking for bargains!
5. Refresh Your Body with Summer Fruits
Summer is the perfect time to enjoy fresh, colourful fruit that's packed with vitamins, fibre and antioxidants. Not only do they help keep you hydrated, but they also support your immune system, heart, brain and digestive health.
If you're looking for the biggest nutritional boost, berries come out on top.
Some of the best fruits to include this summer are:
🍓 Blueberries – Rich in antioxidants that support brain function, memory and heart health. Frozen blueberries are just as nutritious, and often even better value.
🍓 Strawberries – High in vitamin C and antioxidants that help support your immune system, reduce inflammation and keep your skin healthy.
🍓 Raspberries and Blackberries – Excellent sources of fibre, helping to keep your digestive system healthy while supporting your gut microbiome and overall wellbeing.
🥝 Kiwis – Packed with vitamin C and fibre, helping to boost immunity, aid digestion and support healthy skin.
🍊 Oranges – A fantastic source of vitamin C to help strengthen your immune system and naturally support collagen production for healthy skin.
🍎 Apples – Rich in fibre, particularly when eaten with the skin on, making them great for gut health, cholesterol and keeping you feeling fuller for longer.
Enjoy These in Moderation
No fruit is "bad", but some contain more natural sugars than others. Bananas, grapes and mangoes can still be part of a healthy diet, but enjoying sensible portions is key, especially if you're watching your blood sugar levels.
One surprise is melon. Although wonderfully refreshing and hydrating on a hot day, it's lower in fibre and nutrients than many other fruits, so try pairing it with a variety of berries or other fruits for a greater nutritional boost.
Top Tip: Fresh, frozen and tinned fruit (in natural juice rather than syrup) all count towards your five a day. Frozen berries are often picked and frozen at peak ripeness, making them a nutritious and budget-friendly choice all year round.
Before you read number 6 - Thank you for being here. I hope this post has inspired you to slow down, take care of yourself and enjoy the little moments that summer has to offer. If you found it helpful, please leave a comment below. I'd love to hear from you, and your comments help build a supportive community where we can encourage one another. 🌿💚 Also, subscribe to receive future blogs, wellbeing tips, cancer awareness updates and writing inspiration directly to your inbox.
6. Looking for the Perfect Summer Read? 📚
Summer is the perfect season to slow down, relax with a cup of tea or a glass of something refreshing, and lose yourself in a good book. Whether you're reading in the garden, on the beach or enjoying a quiet evening outdoors, there's nothing quite like escaping into a great story.
I'd be crazy if I didn't mention my own books! Writing has been a lifelong passion, and I am incredibly proud of each novel I've published. My latest release, The Choices That Change Us, is especially close to my heart.
One of the things that makes this novel a little different is that the two main characters, Liz and Katie, are inspired by two wonderful friends who really do live in my village of Green Hammerton, North Yorkshire. They work together in the village Post Office and Café, and the photograph on the cover is actually of them. In the novel, Liz also runs the Green Hammerton Shop and Café, adding another little nod to real village life.
That's where the similarities end! The story itself is entirely fictional, taking readers on an emotional journey of friendship, love, heartbreak and the unexpected choices that can change our lives forever.
And if you happen to be passing through Green Hammerton, why not pop into the village Shop and Café? You might even meet the real Liz and Katie and say hello!
If you'd like to find out more about The Choices That Change Us, simply click the button below to read the blurb and discover whether it could become your next unforgettable summer read.
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