6 Summer Routines That Support Wellness, Ambition And Joy

Summer is here, bringing longer days and more sunlight, the perfect opportunity to build routines that support your mental, physical, and emotional well-being. Unlike the darker winter months, summer offers a natural boost in energy and mood, making it an ideal time to establish habits that fuel your wellness, ambition, and joy.

Her Agenda has gathered six summer routines, some new, some you may be familiar with, that you can embrace in the warm weather.

“Start your day by opening the drapes, maybe even cracking the windows to let the early morning sun in,” said J Cangialosi of Relief Mental Health. “Better yet, if you’re able to get a short walk outside before you fully launch your day, strive for that. Take a deep breath of that morning air and sun. This will help to reset your circadian rhythm and improve sleep.”

Taking time out of the day to take care of yourself and your health can be beneficial. Sunshine and outdoor air also helps put you in an upbeat mood, which is a great way to start the day.

“SNAP Out of Scrolling and Into Your Life this Summer: We miss out on valuable moments of our lives and real-world connections when we spend too much time immersed in our phones, unconsciously scrolling through social media or ‘doomscrolling’ the news,” said Julie Potiker, mindfulness expert with extensive certifications and teacher training. “These habits also increase our stress levels and can harm our emotional and mental health.”

Putting the phone down can also make you more aware and allow you to live in the moment.

“Build a Cooling, Calming Summer Wind-Down Routine: Sleep doesn’t stop being important just because the sun’s out later,” said Olivia Dreizen Howell, certified life and business coach and clinical hypnotherapist, and co-founder of Fresh Starts Registry. “In fact, many of us sleep worse in summer thanks to heat, later bedtimes, and disrupted routines.”

Olivia says the fix could be creating a night ritual that reflects the season. Try adding peppermint or eucalyptus essential oils, silk or cotton sleepwear, and an evening shower.”

“Drink a full glass of water right away,” said J Cangialosi. “I know for me, drinking water first thing in the morning is invigorating, especially if I make it extra cold. Not to mention the necessity to stay hydrated simply because it’s hot outside. Starting the day with a brisk glass of water wakes the brain up and gets it ready to work!”

Water is essential in all seasons, but especially during those hot summer months. Make sure you refuel by drinking at least 64 oz a day.

“Discover your Joy: Grab a pen and paper and spend 3 minutes writing down all the activities that bring you joy,” said Julie. “Everything from taking a bath, planning a trip, walking in nature, listening to music, seeing live performances, etc. Each day, try to fit in one or two of these activities!”

Finding hobbies that align with what makes you happy can be fun. You may find that you have new hobbies that impress you. Trying out new things can also lead to making new friends, and creating new experiences together.

“Audit Your Summer Social Life: Summer can feel like a blur of BBQs, birthday parties, beach days, and group texts,” said Olivia. “And while community is beautiful, it’s important to check in with how your social life makes you feel. Are you energized? Or are you secretly dreading the plans you made? Give yourself permission to decline invitations that don’t align.”

Choosing yourself over a get-together is not only a good thing, it’s healthy. It’s so easy to get burnt out attending countless events during the summer, but if you’re tired or not feeling it, stay home for yourself.