8 Ways to Stay Grounded and Calm Amid Summer Excitement

By: Tajiya Holland

As grains of sand tickle your toes, a gust of sea breeze carries the scent of sunscreen to your nose, confirming that summer has arrived. Summer is the season when we all want to do, see, and experience everything the world has to offer.

However, while going to the beach, picnicking, attending festivals, and late-night gatherings, prioritizing your mental health and well-being can often take a back seat.

As children, summer was about having fun and taking a break. As adults, we rush off to events after working long hours and jam-pack our weekends to make the most of the season. Amid all the excitement, however, it’s not uncommon to feel drained, overwhelmed, and even lonely.

Why summer can cause you to feel overwhelmed & alone:

Being grounded means feeling centered and balanced no matter what’s going on around you—and in the summertime, a lot is going on. Therefore, contrary to popular belief, “summer depression exists and affects four to six percent of the U.S. population,” according to Smitha Bhandari, MD

Here are a few ways the summertime can cause you to feel ungrounded and overwhelmed:

• Having a chaotic schedule
• Overwhelmed by nostalgia
• Too much heat and humidity
• Body image issues
• Feeling alone

If you are dealing with depression, it’s best to consult a doctor. If you’re feeling hyperactive or a bit down due to the essence of the season, keep reading for a few summer activities that can help you feel more grounded, calm, and content.

8 Ways to Stay Grounded and Calm Amid Summer Excitement

Summer’s allure brings with it a whirlwind of excitement and adventure. Amidst the buzz of vacations, outdoor escapades, and social engagements, it’s important to stay grounded and maintain a sense of inner calm. Keep reading for eight ideas to help you navigate the summer frenzy while preserving your tranquility.

1. Solo-Date

Spending time with yourself pushes you to be more self-reliant and present in your life. If you’re not familiar with dating yourself, it may be uncomfortable at first. You may feel out of place if you’re accustomed to being in social settings. Whether you take yourself on a hike or a trip to a museum followed by brunch, solo dates are great for self-reflection and a better understanding of yourself. Going on solo dates will allow you to better recognize your boundaries and desires, which can help you enjoy the thrills of summer and everything it has to offer.

2. Photography

Immerse yourself in your surroundings and capture life’s little moments through the lens. Whether using your phone, a disposable film camera, or a professional DSLR, photography is a great hobby that allows you to create beauty and preserve precious memories.

Whether it’s appreciating the beauty of nature, overcoming social anxiety through portraiture, or finding solace in capturing heartfelt reminders, give it a try and unlock new perspectives.

3. Camping

Leave all your worries at home and pack only the essentials you need to live off of for a few days. Camping doesn’t have to be like an episode of Survivor. With the right preparation, you can find bliss and adventure outdoors. Forget about your work inbox and abandon the digital screens, gather your friends or family and reconnect in conversation around a campfire.

Exercise by hiking on a nearby trail—the awe-inspiring view at the top will be worth it. Stargaze at night as you connect with yourself and the world. Realize how large the universe is, and feel your worries fade as you gain peace and mental clarity. As you end your trip, not only will you bring home memories but you’ll also gain confidence and independence.

4. DIY Happy Hour

When you and your friends are off the clock, enjoy quality time around a bit of food and drinks. Prepping, mixing, and cooking can be a meditative experience of its own. Direct your attention to the senses on display. Listen to the crunch of the lettuce shredding and the fizzle of the carbonated water. Inhale the fresh smell of mint and citrus and observe the bold color of sangria. Your kitchen can provide a fun and calming ambiance. Ultimately, mindfully preparing dishes will make the experience of eating them more enjoyable!

5. Gardening

Gardening offers a therapeutic and fulfilling hobby, whether you have a garden bed or a small section of countertop space. When you plant a seed, nurture it, and witness its growth, you not only soak up essential vitamin D but also engage with the natural world, fostering a sense of joy and contentment.

Harvesting your own crops brings a profound sense of accomplishment and a boost to your self-esteem. If you possess a natural affinity for gardening, consider joining a community garden as an opportunity to connect with like-minded individuals and cultivate a sense of purpose.

6. Bike Riding

Whether for commuting or pure joy, bike riding captivates your senses. Every bump, dip, and curve is felt beneath your tires, while the wind’s whoosh serenades your ears. Bike riding cultivates a state of heightened awareness without overwhelming your senses. Plus, the added exercise invigorates your body, promoting a healthy and active lifestyle.

7. Painting

Dip your brush or your fingers into your favorite colors and go for it! Painting is a great way to express yourself, and there is no need to be skilled at it. The saying, “A picture is worth a thousand words” is true. Release your worried thoughts and feelings onto the canvas! By giving your emotions a physical space and making them tangible, the agony of keeping them internal will disappear. Distract yourself from day-to-day struggles and paint your way to a clearer perspective.

8. Sunset Watching

There is a reason why watching sunsets never gets old. The satisfying, stress-relieving feeling is worth experiencing each day. As the clouds move and reshape, find yourself daydreaming and making them out to be shapes of different objects, people, or animals. Get lost in the moment and be inspired as the colors paint the sky. Take a bit of time to give the sky your undivided attention. You don’t have to travel to the best viewing point—enjoy the sunset from the comfort of your home if you can.

Navigate summer excitement with inner peace

As the summer season unfolds with its delightful thrills and exuberance, it’s crucial to remember the importance of staying grounded and calm. By implementing the eight strategies we’ve explored, you can navigate the summer excitement with grace, balance, and a sense of inner peace.

Whether it’s practicing mindfulness, connecting with nature, or taking time for self-care, these simple ideas can help you savor the joys of summer without losing yourself in the frenzy. May this summer be a season of both excitement and tranquility!