As the long, warm days of summer give way to the back-to-school frenzy and all the new commitments that come with it, it’s easy to feel like you’re running out of time to relax and have fun. But in most places, the weather’s still nice, and the school year isn’t yet in full swing.
Take advantage of these precious remaining days of summer to do something that relaxes and rejuvenates you. Need some inspiration? Here are a few ideas to get you started.
Create an at-home spa day.
If you have the time and budget to spend a day getting pampered at the spa, sign yourself up! Otherwise, creating a similar experience at home can feel almost as luxurious. Make sure you have some products on hand: a body scrub, a facemask, some bubble bath, and some nail polish, for example.
Set aside some time when you won’t be disturbed, and put your phone away. Then brew some tea (or pour some wine), run a bath, and get to exfoliating.
Make a coffee date with a friend.
With all the responsibilities that come with adulthood, friendships too often get pushed to the backburner. But strong friendships are a crucial part of feeling supported, maintaining mental health, and even living longer. Before you get too busy this fall, schedule some time to catch up with a friend (or a few) over coffee.
Plan a lazy weekend morning.
Whether you’re getting the kids ready for school, heading off to the office, or sneaking in a 6AM workout, mornings often get rushed and busy. We get out of bed and immediately spring into “doing” mode, already worried about what the day will bring.
To enjoy some relaxation time with the whole family, clear the calendar one weekend morning, and tell everyone to sleep in. Make pancakes, stay in your PJs, and give no thought to what time it is or what you need to do later in the day.
Have a beach or pool day.
Spending time at the beach or pool is one of the best things about summer, and you’ll never regret sneaking in one more day of swimming and sunbathing. So leave the kids with a sitter and make it a couple’s day out, go solo and enjoying doing whatever you feel like, or make it a play date with your kids’ friends. However you do it, relish this time outside in the sun – you’ll be missing it once the colder weather comes around.
Get a haircut.
Getting your hair cut is a rare chance to unplug, get an informal therapy session, and do something that leaves you feeling fabulous. If it’s been a while since your last haircut, now is the perfect time for a quick trim or a whole new ‘do. But if your hairdresser tends to book up, don’t put off making the appointment!
The beginning of fall can be a busy time of change, transitions, and new responsibilities, so make an effort to let yourself relax a little while you have the time.
