As the sun shines bright and the temperatures rise, summer encourages us to go outside and engage in fulfilling activities to make the most of this dynamic season. While staying active is a wonderful way to enjoy the summer months, it's equally important to cultivate mindfulness during this chaotic season and fully immerse ourselves in the present moment. In this blog, we will explore how you can infuse mindfulness into your active summer days to savour the beauty of each experience.

Walk mindfully 

Sometimes we find ourselves walking aimlessly, always in a rush to get somewhere instead of taking all the beauty around us in. When you go for a walk, slow down and engage your senses. Pay attention to how each step feels when your feet touch the ground and to the sounds and sights around you. By taking deep breaths and being fully present, you can transform a simple activity into a mindful journey.

Take your mat outside

Want to enjoy a nice flow in the sun? Find a serene spot in a park or backyard, lay down your favourite yoga mat and allow the fresh air and natural surroundings to boost your practice. Pay close attention to how your body feels in each pose, the sounds of nature and the grounding connection you have with the earth beneath you. 

Swim with intention

Whether you're swimming in the ocean, a lake or a pool, you should try to adopt a mindful approach. How? It’s pretty simple. As you glide through the water, focus on the sensation against your skin, the rhythmic movement of your body and the sound of your breath. Embrace the feeling of weightlessness and the profound connection with the water element. This can help you turn an activity that may have seemed stressful into an amazingly relaxing experience.

Engage your senses

Mindfulness is about being fully present. Whatever you decide to do this summer, make sure you are fully embracing the experience and engaging your senses. Feel the warmth of the sun on your skin, stop and smell the blooming flowers, listen to the birds chirping and indulge in refreshing seasonal fruits. By embracing these sensory experiences, you become fully present and limit the distractions around you, which helps you enjoy your summer even more!

Disconnect digitally

It seems like everyone is glued to their phones and laptops nowadays, which prevents them from truly enjoying the moment. Resist the urge to constantly check emails or scroll through social media and give your full attention to the activities you're engaged in instead. Consider leaving your phone behind or putting it on silent mode to minimise distractions and fully immerse yourself in the present moment. 

Practice breath awareness

Throughout your active summer days, take regular moments to focus on your breath. Notice the inhalation and exhalation, the rhythm and the sensation of each breath. Bringing your attention back to your breath helps you stay grounded, calm and more present. 

Eat mindfully

When was the last time you actually enjoyed a meal, with no rush or distractions? Take time to savour the flavours, textures and smells of the food. Chew slowly and enjoy each bite. Appreciate the nourishment and pleasure that food brings to your body. 

Be grateful for nature

While you engage in outdoor activities this summer, take a second to take the beauty around you all in. Appreciate vibrant colours, the sound of waves or wind, the rustling of leaves or the sight of a clear blue sky. Express gratitude for the opportunity to experience the wonders of the natural world and allow them to fill your heart with appreciation.

Release performance pressure

Let go of performance pressure during your active summer days. Instead of just focusing on achieving specific goals, embrace the process and the joy of being active. Allow yourself to fully enjoy the experience without judgment or self-criticism. Remember that the purpose of engaging in summer activities is to have fun, relax and connect with yourself and nature. 

Enjoy peace and quiet

In the midst of summer’s chaos, it's essential to find moments of quiet solitude. Learn to say no to plans when you need to and enjoy a quiet night in by yourself every once in a while. These moments of tranquillity allow you to recharge. Appreciate the peace and serenity that can be found even in the middle of an active summer.