June 24, 2024

A Summer of Real Connection

By Riya Mital

Summer is here! Everyone seems happier, the world seems brighter. Summer is a great time for connection. Connecting to people or the world around you can be a great mid-year reset. But how do you achieve a summer of real connection? And how do you avoid just staying in and spending your summer locked up inside? Here are some helpful tips on how to combat the lazy summer and get out there more!

1. When in Doubt, Go Outside

Summer is the perfect time to soak up some extra vitamin D and a great way to get your fill of sunshine. So, if you are doing something inside the house, take it outside! This will help you get some fresh air and reconnect with the world around you. Whether you are reading or even cutting vegetables, go outside and catch some extra rays!

The sunshine will go a long way. It will also help you feel like you are taking advantage of the summer more by being outside, rather than being cooped up inside doing something you can easily take out.

2. See People at Least Once a Week

This can be a hard one especially with differing schedules, but if you can make an effort, try to see people in your close circle at least once a week! One thing that has been recommended is creating a shared calendar so that you can see when everyone is free.

If you can make the effort to see at least one person from your closest friends at least once a week, it gives you something to look forward to and makes your summer filled with more real connection, rather than spending that time connecting with people over social media.

3. Incorporate Some Summer Foods

This one is really simple, but sometimes the simple things are what add up and make the seasons feel more special. Now, summer is filled with many new fruits and veggies being in season, so take advantage!

Incorporate these fresh summer foods for the summertime. Grab some watermelon and mangoes or make a fresh salad and go out in the sun. This can not only help your mood during summer, but also your energy levels.

4. Find a New Workout

Summer is a great time for experimenting. Connecting with the world and people around you is just as important as connecting with yourself. To help yourself feel better about the heat and combat summer laziness, find a new way to stay active!

This can be as simple as just going on more walks, maybe swimming, or if you have the means, you can check out cool gyms near you with things like dancing, climbing, etc. The world is your oyster and summer is a great time for experimenting with yourself and your hobbies. Get out there and get moving!

5. Look for Free Events Near You!

This one has been a lot easier with the onset of social media, which is a great resource for finding events near you! Instagram reels have been a great way for me to expand my horizons and find cool events near me! Also look for events in things that interest you.

For example, if you like to read, go to book releases or book swap events! There are so many events for almost every hobby, go look for them and connect with your passions this summer.

Summer is a great season for connecting with the world and people around you. Use these tips to magnify your summer experience and have a mid-year reset to focus on yourself and your passions. Enjoy the sun to its fullest and take advantage of this year!