Make Self-Care a Priority This Summer
What is self-care?
Shawna Cogar, LGSW, Mental Health Therapist at CBHSA, insists it’s important to engage in activities during the summer that will recharge your mind and your body.
“Self-care is important, but, of course, it doesn’t happen automatically,” says Cogar. “You have to prioritize it and dedicate time to it.”
Self-care activities
Beyond those basics, she says, the great thing about self-care is that it can take many forms and be tailored to your own needs and interests. Self-care activities can include, but are not limited to, any of the following:
- Reading a book
- Exercising
- Baking cookies
- Watching your favorite movies
- Participating in a hobby
- Practicing stress-management skills, such as deep breathing
- Mindfulness
- Raising a garden
- Spending time with friends or family
- Using grounding techniques or mediation
The options are as varied or individualized as you are.
Self-care is important, but, of course, it doesn’t happen automatically. You have to prioritize it and dedicate time to it.
There are more options for self-care activities during the summer, whether they are evening walks, eating lighter, healthier meals, or engaging in mindfulness activities outdoors.
Why summer is the perfect time to focus on self-care
Also, with children out of school, summer vacation time, and the availability of more fresh produce, there is more flexibility to take up new hobbies, eat better, or adopt healthy habits.
“There are just more options for self-care activities during the summer, whether they are evening walks, eating lighter, healthier meals, or engaging in mindfulness activities outdoors,” says Cogar. “And what you start doing now can carry over to the colder, shorter days that arrive in the fall and winter.”
Stick to Self-Care: Make It a Habit
- Build a Routine—Pick a time that works (morning or evening) and stick to it.
- Make it Social—Work out with a neighbor or meet a friend for lunch—accountability helps..
- Choose Fun First—Do what feels good! Self-care should be enjoyable, not a chore.
- Start Small—Set goals you can actually reach. Small wins build momentum.
- Repeat What Works— Notice what helps and keep doing it. Consistency is key.
Make the most of summer—start your self-care journey today by checking in with yourself or talking to your provider for personalized support. Your well-being is worth it.