These Summer Self Care Ideas are the Key to a Happier Summer

Summer is in full swing, and if you’re looking for summer self care ideas, then I’ve got you covered. These ideas are not about doing anything complicated or perfect, but more about adding small, calming habits into your routine. From spending time outside to making time for things you enjoy, summer is a great reminder to care for yourself in gentle and practical ways.

Summer Self Care Ideas

1. Spend Time Outside

According to the National Institute of Health, vitamin D is one of the most beneficial vitamins we need. And a great way to get it is through food and also by spending time outside. In addition to supporting physical health, it also has strong benefits for mental health. By helping to improve mood and supporting the release of serotonin in the brain, which is known as the happy and calming chemical.

Which is why this is one of my favorite summer self care ideas, and that is to spend time outside and get some vitamin D. You can do this in many simple ways, like going on a walk, heading to the beach, or just sitting on your balcony, backyard, or porch while soaking in fresh air and sunlight. 

Now, summer can be very HOT. So if you don’t want to go out during midday, you can always plan your outdoor time for early morning or later in the evening when the sun is not as intense.

2. Drink Water Throughout the Day

Raise your hand if you’re guilty of not drinking enough water throughout the day, because I know I am. Another self care idea that you can prioritize this summer is intentionally drinking more water throughout your day. 

Our bodies are made up of about 60% water, and drinking water is essential for supporting basic bodily functions like producing saliva, tears, and urine. It also supports brain function, helping with focus, mood, and energy levels.

I used to struggle with drinking enough water too, and honestly, I still do. Something that has really helped me is getting a cute water bottle with a sip attachment.

I don’t know why, but there’s something about it that makes drinking water so much easier. Because the bottle is cute, I leave it somewhere visible so I can see it throughout the day, and it naturally encourages me to drink more. 

If you’re struggling to drink enough water, I highly recommend getting a cute water bottle. During the summer, you can even get an insulated one so your drink stays cold all day.

3. Plan Things to Look Forward To

Is it just me, or does life feel a little more whimsical and exciting when you have something to look forward to? If you feel the same way, I would highly recommend writing a list and planning a few things you want to do this summer.

It can be anything like going to an ice cream shop, hosting a summer party, trying a new recipe, or adding in small activities you enjoy during the season. The idea is to include things you genuinely want to do, then have fun anticipating them and enjoying them when the time comes.

CHECK OUT: 61 Fantastic Ideas For Your Summer Bucket List

4. Move Your Body

When it comes to self care, one of the biggest things people often mention within their routine is exercising, and for good reason. 

Moving our bodies is not only essential for maintaining physical health, but it can also help release serotonin and dopamine, along with other feel good chemicals in the brain, while reducing stress and supporting overall wellbeing.

So this summer, prioritize moving your body. This can look like many different things, such as going to the gym, doing at-home workouts, trying a dance workout, or joining a run club. You can also get creative with other ways to move your body, like swimming, playing pickleball, or going on a bike ride.

5. Clean and Organize Your Space

Lastly, another summer self care idea, is cleaning and organizing your space. From your closet to your bedroom, or even your entire apartment or home, this is a great way to start the season feeling refreshed and reset. It also helps you feel more safe, comfortable, and at ease in your environment.

This is also a great time to set up routines and systems in your space that make staying organized and keeping things clean much easier and more sustainable. For example, if you find it hard to keep your clothes organized, or you tend to come home and leave a pile of semi worn clothes on a chair or corner of your room, you can create a dedicated space for them. This could be a specific drawer just for semi worn clothes that are not dirty enough for the hamper yet.

Another helpful idea is getting cute and functional bedding that makes making your bed super easy in the morning, so you can straighten it out in less than two to three minutes and be done. When organizing your clothes, go through everything you own and see if you have worn items within the last few months or years. If you have not, that might be your sign to donate or resell them.