By Jordan Fredrickson (MSW in progress)
Summer often feels like a season of freedom, relaxation, and fun, but for many people, it can also become a time of burnout, overcommitment, and emotional exhaustion. Between busy schedules, family obligations, vacations, and trying to “make the most” of the season, self-care can quickly fall to the bottom of the priority list. Many clients share that they struggle to slow down long enough to ask themselves what they truly need. A healthy summer self-care routine begins with awareness and intention. Instead of simply filling your calendar, take time to reflect on your experience and consider what would genuinely help you feel rested, balanced, and fulfilled.
One of the most important questions to ask yourself is: How would I treat someone I love if they were feeling overwhelmed or disconnected? Often, we extend compassion, patience, and care to others while neglecting our own needs. Self-care is not selfish; it is necessary for emotional and physical well-being. Think about the activities that bring you joy and peace. Maybe it’s reading outside, taking walks in nature, spending time with friends, listening to music, journaling, or simply allowing yourself to rest without guilt. Summer can be an opportunity to reconnect with yourself and create routines that support your overall wellness rather than drain your energy.
When building a self-care routine, it’s also helpful to identify the areas of your life that are not receiving enough attention. Are you neglecting your emotional needs by avoiding rest or ignoring stress? Is your physical health suffering from poor sleep, lack of movement, or unhealthy habits? Maybe your social life feels unbalanced, your spiritual life feels disconnected, or your mental health has been impacted by constant busyness and overstimulation. Self-care should support every part of you, not just one area. Taking time to check in with yourself honestly can help you create a routine that feels realistic, meaningful, and sustainable.
Here are a few actionable tips for creating a healthy summer self-care routine:
- Schedule time for yourself just as you would any other important appointment.
- Spend at least 20–30 minutes outdoors each day to improve mood and reduce stress.
- Create boundaries around work, social obligations, and screen time to protect your energy.
- Practice daily mindfulness through journaling, meditation, prayer, or deep breathing. (Insight Timer, Calm, and Headspace are great apps that provide mindfulness exercises and opportunities for practice).
- Choose one activity each week that brings you genuine joy and helps you recharge emotionally.
This summer, give yourself permission to slow down, reflect, and prioritize your well-being. Self-care does not have to be complicated or expensive; it simply requires consistency and intention. Small daily habits can create lasting positive changes in your emotional, physical, social, spiritual, and mental health. If you’ve been feeling overwhelmed, disconnected, or emotionally drained, now is the perfect time to begin caring for yourself with the same compassion you show others. Start small, stay intentional, and remember that your well-being deserves to be a priority.