Making Space for Yourself This Summer

It finally feels like summer has arrived! The days are warmer, the evenings are longer, and there seems to be more energy in the air.

As we approach the Summer Solstice this Sunday, the longest day of the year, many of us naturally feel drawn outside. We make plans with family and friends, spend more time in the garden, enjoy walks in the sunshine, and perhaps feel a renewed motivation to do all of the things we have been waiting for better weather to enjoy.

And I absolutely encourage you to make the most of it. After all, there is something wonderfully uplifting about sunshine, fresh air, and the opportunity to spend more time outdoors.

But there is also something else that often happens at this time of year. As the days become longer, our diaries can become fuller. Have you noticed this?! The invitations increase. The weekends become busier. We find ourselves squeezing more and more into each day because there are simply more hours of daylight available to us.

Whilst this can be a lovely thing, it can also be easy to forget that our body’s needs do not really change because the season has. Our nervous system and overall wellbeing still rely on the same foundations that support us throughout the rest of the year.

So, as summer begins, this is a gentle reminder to think about how you want to spend it. Find joy, connect with loved ones, spend time outdoors and enjoy the longer days. But don’t forget to make space for yourself in the mix as well, and keep doing the basics that your body needs to thrive.

Things like keeping your water bottle close by and sipping throughout the day, nourishing yourself with food that helps you feel your best – at this time of year, we are fortunate to have an abundance of fresh, local produce available to us. And keep moving your body in ways that you enjoy, whether that’s an evening walk after dinner, a swim, a gym class or time in the garden. Movement doesn’t have to be complicated to be beneficial. Sleep is also one that can go at the wayside due to the light evenings, but trying to prioritise your time in bed and do so much for your recovery.

Looking after yourself doesn’t need to be complicated. Often, it is the small, consistent acts of care that help us make the most of the longer, brighter days.

With love,

Sarah