It's July! The lazy days of summer are here!
July is a great time to take a break, rest, and recharge your mind, body, and soul. It's a time to slow down, be present, and live in the moment. July brings with it a sense of time and opportunity to reflect, feel, and heal.
How can you embrace the slowness of the season? Find ways to take a break - however you can.
Do you have vacation days? Take some! If you only have a few, take some Fridays off to create long weekends. If you can't take any days from work or your business, try to think of ways you can still fit in some slow-down time during the workday like scheduling a lunch break or 15-minute breaks throughout the day. Use the time to step away from work - go for a walk, sit outside, or try meditation.
Can you take a vacation and get away for an extended period of time? Vacations are great but if you can't take one you can try a staycation or some day trips. Try visiting one new place for each familiar place you visit. Many places are free or offer free days/times to visit.
Is there something you keep saying you want to do or try? Do it! Take a walk, go for a swim, or jump in the car and drive with the windows down playing your favorite tunes. Bring a journal to the beach or curl up with a good book. Try that yoga class you have been thinking about. You can also try a new recipe on the grill or try something else new like a new ice cream flavor or other summer season food. Savor the moments. Mix in new adventures with familiar ones.
If you are looking for a good book, check out some of the great reads written by our member authors HERE.
Any little bit of rest and self-care you can fit in will help you and those around you. Resting is a gift you give yourself.
In tying in with the slow down theme of July, instead of buying from Amazon during Prime days this month, consider taking a stroll through a local town and supporting the small businesses. Grab a coffee from one and an ice cream from another (and mix them together like we did!) and pick up any needed or wanted items from the local shops. You won't regret taking the time to slow things down and the businesses will appreciate your support.
Have a million things on the calendar and no clue how to slow down while still getting things done? It's possible! First, acknowledge that not everything HAS to get done in the time specified. Prioritize what needs to get done first, then focus on that. Stop the multi-tasking. Give yourself ample time and take breaks. Mix in things you want to do with the things you have to do.
Perhaps most importantly, try to be in the moment as much as you can. While the stores are focused on getting you ready for back-to-school and the fall season, slow down and experience the now: the lazy days of summer.
Wishing you all the best that July has to offer!
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