Savor the Season: Simple Ideas to Slow Down This Summer

As the daylight extends late into the evening, the dog days of summer are characterized by mindfulness and easy-going energy. However, the warmer weather and longer days often inspire many of us to go, go, go, packing our days full of activities and social events. 

It’s easy to get caught up in all the excitement and fun that Carmel has to offer in the beautiful summer. However, it’s also important to make time to slow down and savor the beauty of the season. Luckily, finding even small ways to incorporate a few minutes of intentionality into your day can usher in the gentle, calm energy of summer and help you enjoy this time of year in all its beauty.

 

Sit Down and Sip Your Coffee

 

During the week, many of us drink our morning coffee while getting ready, checking emails, or heading into the first meeting of the day. Even on the weekends, you might sip your coffee while conquering errands, heading to a workout class, or enjoying a morning hike.

This summer, challenge yourself to take time to sit down with a cup of coffee or tea and simply be.

Whether you like your drink hot or iced, this is a perfect way to start your day — or slow down your afternoon.

This doesn’t need to be an hour-long session. Even just 10 or 20 minutes to press pause and reflect on what your day looks like, find a few things you’re grateful for, or journal your thoughts, can be a great opportunity to embrace the calm energy of the summer season.

Enjoy a Relaxing Meal

 

Especially on busy days, eating can sometimes feel like more of a thing to check off the to-do list than something we genuinely look forward to. If you notice yourself falling into this mindset, this could be a sign that it’s time to hit pause and find ways to make your meals a relaxing time you enjoy.

A relaxing meal can look different for everyone. For some, it means dining out and embracing seasonal cuisine like summer barbecue or refreshing tacos. It’s always nice to appreciate the beauty of a meal someone else has carefully made for you, allowing you to kick back with no worries about cleanup.  

For others, a relaxing meal looks like winding down and cooking at home. If that’s more your speed, pick up a bottle of local wine to pair with your meal, or consider a yummy dessert to savor afterward. Instead of eating inside, try having a picnic or embracing the beautiful summer weather by dining on your patio.

Treat Yourself to a Manicure or Spa Services

 

We all know the importance of self-care. While self-care encompasses so many different aspects of our well-being, from basic hygiene to more deliberate activities that embrace mindfulness, those more purposeful acts can get put on the back burner when we are busy or stressed.

Sometimes, one of the best ways to slow down is to schedule time to give yourself a little pick-me-up with a spa service.

Schedule a manicure or pedicure, treat yourself to a massage, or focus on your skin’s health with a facial. Whatever feels good for you, sometimes one of the best ways to wind down is the most obvious — and rewarding. 

Let Yourself Wander

 

Do you ever feel yourself falling into a routine? While humans are creatures of habit, and routine is no doubt comfortable, what would happen if you let yourself wander?

What if you went to a new neighborhood — or even a more recognizable part of town — and set out without a destination? You might see familiar places, people, and details in a new light. Perhaps you’ll stumble upon a new restaurant or store you’ve never tried. Or, maybe you’ll find yourself in a place that you’ve been before, but simply looking at it through a new lens sparks creativity or inspires you to try something new.

You also don’t even need to head out of your home to take yourself on an adventure. Next time you have a few moments to yourself — whether you’re cooking dinner or winding down after a long day — let your mind wander and see where it takes you!

Whether in-person or in your imagination, when you let yourself explore new or familiar destinations, you might just end up somewhere amazing.

Shop With Intentionality

 

For many of us, shopping can be an autopilot activity. With online shopping, it’s all too easy to search for an item the second we realize we need it, click “add to cart,” check out, and wait for it to show up on our doorsteps days later. 

Shopping with intentionality can be a more emotionally impactful way to curate your purchases. For everything from clothing and furniture to groceries and pet food, taking time out of your day to really consider each purchase can make it more meaningful.

For example, maybe instead of auto-shipping your pet food order, you can head to a local pet shop to find some new treats your furry friend might love!

When searching for a new clothing item, think about how it will fit in your wardrobe with all the existing pieces you have (and even take inspiration from a capsule wardrobe).

If you need a new piece of furniture, consider wandering into a local small business for unique, one-of-a-kind pieces.

Even if you don’t find something right away, this way of thinking can help you practice mindfulness and appreciate the experience of finding things you truly love!

 

Embrace the Thoughtful Nature of “Snail Mail”

 

When was the last time you handwrote a letter? Many of us reserve handwritten notes for formal “thank-yous” and occasion cards.

However, sending a handwritten letter can be a meaningful, heartfelt way to connect with loved ones.

When all that seems to arrive in the mail is bills or unsolicited offers (or, as many of us call it, “junk mail”), it can be a wonderful surprise to receive a thoughtfully written piece of mail! 

Even if you don’t have family or friends who live far away, sending a message the old-fashioned way, via “snail mail,” can be a fun way to foster your relationships! If you’re not sure who to write to, there are lots of programs where you can find a pen pal to correspond with (and use a post box for added safety).

It doesn’t take much to get started. Pick up some beautiful local stationery, pens, stamps, and envelopes, and get writing! 

Enjoy the Art of a Slow Summer in Carmel

 

Whether you’re making time to sip a cup of coffee, writing a loved one a thoughtful handwritten note, or finding a few moments of calm in your own way, let yourself be inspired by the beauty of Carmel and the relaxing energy of the season! Enjoy all the beauty the city has to offer, and don’t be afraid to take time to explore local shops and the faces behind them that make it so special.