It’s Fringe festival time here in Edinburgh! A buzzing, creative time when our garden city brims to overflowing with visitors from all over. Comedy in a phone box? Late night jazz in a bar basement? Burlesque tents? Fringe is a time for summer folly and fun – and it’s got me thinking about how we might bottle some sunshine for the long UK winter months ahead. Pause for a moment and think about how full your fun and freedom psychological needs tanks are at the moment? If you’re not sure what I’m talking about check out this article and video. Here are some top tips for having great mental health this Summer.
Engage in Physical Activities
Engaging in physical activities is an excellent way to bolster emotional resilience during the summer. Exercise releases endorphins, the brain’s feel-good chemicals, which can help combat stress and anxiety. Embrace the warm weather by taking part in activities such as swimming, hiking, biking, or simply going for a walk in nature. Not only will physical activity improve your mood, but it also enhances overall well-being.
Practice Mindfulness and Meditation
Mindfulness and meditation can help you stay grounded and centred during the summer’s hustle and bustle. Taking time to meditate and practice deep breathing can alleviate stress and promote emotional balance. Mindfulness encourages living in the present moment, helping us to enjoy the simple pleasures of summer while reducing anxiety about the future. Try the box breathing technique as an easy starting point to better breathing.
Manage Expectations
Summer often brings with it a sense of heightened expectations for constant fun and enjoyment. However, it’s essential to manage expectations realistically. Not every day has to be packed with exciting adventures; it’s perfectly okay to have moments of rest and relaxation. By setting realistic expectations, you can avoid feelings of disappointment and focus on creating meaningful experiences within your comfort zones.
Stay Connected with Loved Ones
Summer is an opportune time to strengthen social connections with loved ones. Building emotional resilience involves having a support system in place. Reach out to friends and family, plan gatherings, or simply have meaningful conversations. Sharing experiences and feelings with others can provide comfort and a sense of belonging, reinforcing your emotional well-being. If you’re in Edinburgh why not take a stroll through the lovely Botanic Gardens or a walk on Portobello beach either on your own or with family/ friends.
Set Boundaries with Technology
While staying connected through technology has its advantages, excessive screen time can also contribute to emotional strain. Social media can sometimes lead to feelings of inadequacy or FOMO (fear of missing out). To build emotional resilience, consider setting boundaries with technology use. Allocate specific times for checking social media or emails and prioritize face-to-face interactions over virtual ones.
Embrace the Power of Nature
Nature has a remarkable effect on emotional well-being. Spending time outdoors and immersing yourself in natural surroundings can reduce stress and anxiety. Whether it’s a visit to the beach, a picnic in the park, or camping outdoors, nature has a way of rejuvenating the spirit and fostering emotional resilience. See Visit Scotland for some classic Edinburgh walks
Summer is a season of vibrancy and joy, but it can also bring unique challenges to emotional well-being. By practicing emotional resilience techniques, you can navigate the ups and downs of the summer months with grace and confidence. Remember to embrace the beauty of the season, prioritize self-care, and cultivate meaningful connections with loved ones. With these strategies in place, you can create a summer filled with emotional strength, happiness, and lasting memories.
If you’re curious about counselling contact us today for more information about session availability. Under our counselling blog there is an article on why counselling may be helpful for you.
