Summer is just around the corner, so it’s the perfect time to learn how to be your best self. The world is getting increasingly stressful but that doesn’t mean you can’t take steps to be better than ever. By taking the time to engage in a little self-care, you can enjoy your best summer yet. Keep reading to learn how!
Plan a trip with just yourself
Have you ever wanted to go on a road trip across the southwest by yourself to see desert vistas and maybe even visit Georgia O’Keeffe’s famous southwestern ranch? Or, maybe you want to test your fitness and go backpacking on the Pacific Crest Trail? How about doing those trips by yourself?
Hear me out: traveling solo is a great way to connect with yourself without worrying about another person adding complications to your travel plans. Just make sure that you’re prepped and ready with the right road trip app or travel app, a healthy dose of positivity, and a topped-off gas tank.
And, even if you just want to focus on a small, local trip, a well-planned staycation can be an amazing escape from your day-to-day life.
Here are some ideas for solo travel if you need inspiration:
- Bangkok, Thailand: A concrete jungle filled with vibrant bars, music, nightclubs, and unique encounters. Any urban explorer would be delighted.
- Morocco: Visit the blue-washed buildings, take in the intricate tilework, and check out the medinas.
- Utah: If you’re an outdoorsy adventurer, you can’t go wrong with Utah. Go hiking through Zion National Park, take on the trails for an epic mountain biking trek, or wander through the Vermilion Cliffs National Monument by the Utah/Arizona border.
- Whitehorse, Yukon, Canada: For travelers looking for a pristine, small town, Whitehorse offers tons of fun activities like kayaking, hiking, or skiing in the winter months.
Try out CBD for stress relief
CBD, aka cannabidiol is a natural remedy with a range of positive benefits. For example, CBD has been proven to relieve pain, reduce inflammation, diminish symptoms of anxiety, and improve symptoms of depression. Topically, CBD has been shown to help reduce acne, likely because its ingredients fight inflammatory agents. And, if your muscles are sore from a hard workout, specially made CBD lotions can reduce muscle pain and muscle fatigue.
If you’re ready to make the jump, you can buy Ignite CBD online. From tinctures, to gummies, to lotions – CBD offers consumers the chance to relax and decompress from the worries and stresses of life.
Do something outside of your comfort zone
Sure, doing something that scares you a little bit might initially make you feel uncomfortable. But it’s a great way to grow as a person and gain a little bit of confidence, too. For example, you can pursue your interest in writing by attending an in-person writing workshop. Or, you can enroll in a painting class at your local community college. You can even sign up for a trek to hike Mt. Kilimanjaro. Whatever activity or goal you choose to accomplish, it’s important to decide on an experience that fulfills a deeper part of you. It doesn’t matter how big or small it is, it just matters that you actually commit and do it.
Embrace nature
When you’re stuck in a cycle of going to work, going home, and going to sleep each day – it can really do a number on your mental health. It’s a good idea to take a break from technology during the day and spend time outside. Some people find it hard to pull themselves away from the task at hand, so it might be a good idea to use an app or a reminder on your phone to take adequate breaks.
Take the time to go outside and expose yourself to sunlight. The sun is necessary for you to absorb vitamin D, plus, that bright light helps to establish strong and predictable circadian rhythms.
Conclusion: Don’t abandon self-care this summer
Although your life might be incredibly busy, it’s crucial to continue prioritizing your health and sanity. Every day, you should take ten minutes just for yourself to practice a small self-care routine. Maybe that means taking a long bubble bath, yoga, or pouring yourself a glass of red wine. With these tips, you can have a more enjoyable, healthier summer.