Rest is not idleness, and to lie sometimes on the grass on a summer day listening to the murmur of water, or watching the clouds float across the sky, is hardly a waste of time.”

—John Lubbock

As we reach the midpoint of the year, life is blooming all around us. We are diving into summer, and the time is ripe to splash into something new and different, maybe even some fun!

Even though uncertainty still prevails for most of us, this past year has taught us to adapt, be resilient and a little more flexible. The truth is that there isn’t any certainty in life. Certainty is just an illusion that we humans cling to. It’s a trick that keeps us thinking we are in control of our destiny. 

If the pandemic has taught us anything, it is to relish the present moment. We don’t really have control over a lot of things, and this is something most of us are learning to accept. But that does not mean we don’t get to choose for ourselves!

So to mark this glorious summer moment in the seasons of the year, what are you going to choose to do? Want a little more fun and zing in your step? What experiences are calling you? What would you like to try out?

Don’t water the weeds

Summertime is for nurturing what you are happy to grow. Using the garden as a metaphor, which I often like to do, there is no point in continuing to water the weeds unless we want more of them.

Review the last season and see what worked well and what made you feel happy. Do some more of that! Maybe you need to make a course correction. It’s never too late to change your mind, or your plan, if you see it’s taking you in a wrong direction.

Time for play

Summer invites the body to join in playful activity, but as we get older few of us get to spend much of our summers at play. When we are not able to follow our natural instincts to frolic in the glorious sunshine during this season, our energy can take a less constructive path.

Instead of letting frustration and anxiety build from your excess energy, take time to consciously choose a new and more joyful routine. Grown-ups get to play too!

Spend some time outdoors in the morning. Have your tea or coffee while soaking up a little Vitamin D. A small amount of morning sun is good for most of us. If you enjoy morning walks,  this is especially nice to do as the sun is rising. It expands and opens your heart to the new day, to your life, to opportunity. 

Plan some fun into your day

• Go swimming, try horseback riding, or play ping pong or tennis.
• Plan a picnic, settle into a beautiful spot and share your summer meal with a friend. 
• Wear lighter and brighter clothes and enjoy the warmth of the sun on your skin.
• Go to the beach and splash in the waves or build a sand castle.
• Meet up with a friend or two on a new trail for a hike.
• Have a movie night outside with your family and friends.
• Walk barefoot on the grass. Feel the earth beneath your feet.
• Do your stretching under the open sky. 
• Break from your daily routine and try new things.

Summertime naturally opens us up to new opportunities. Take advantage of the expansive days of summer. Whatever you fancy, whatever you choose to do, have fun doing it!

Cheers to Gorgeously Healthy summer playtime!

Gay