The Balanced Life, Huntsville Alabama

Most of us are familiar with the expression “all work and no play makes Jack a very dull boy”. It is time we took an inventory of our work to play ratio. Summer is definitely the season to play, as there is plenty of opportunity for fun in the sun, travel, and spending time with friends and family. Although we have to do some “adulting” most days, it is important to make time for the things we enjoy and the people we enjoy spending time with. So, without further ado, here are 10 ways to treat yourself this summer!

Play hooky on a Monday or Friday. 

This one is simple. Who doesn’t love a three day weekend? If you have vacation days, use them before you lose them. Did you know American workers are the least likely, out of other industrialize countries’ workers, to use vacation?

Take a stay-vacation

Sometimes going away on vacation isn’t feasible for a myriad or reason. Instead take a stay-cation. Enjoy your city. Go to restaurant you haven’t visited, shop and relax in your own back yard (figuratively and literally).

Spend some time by a body of water: any ocean, lake, river, creek, pool, kiddie pool, or puddle will do. Just let the calming force of a body of H2O melt all your cares away.  

Increase your levels of vitamin D

Let the sun kiss your skin. With a barrier of SPF, of course. When we are exposed to sun light our bodies produce vitamin D. Vitamin D helps our bodies do all kind of amazing things like decrease the risk of heart disease and osteoporosis. Vitamin D is also a natural mood booster, but again don’t forget the sunscreen!  

Eat at least one meal week al fresco

Take advantage of a cool summer night or morning and eat a meal on the deck or patio. You’ll be glad you did.   

Slow down

Take it slow. Take a breath and slow.it.down.

Take up an outdoor physical activity

Summer is the perfect time start enjoying physical activity without the pressure of a structured gym or studio workout. Running, kayaking, and biking are perfect ways to be physically active during the summer.   

Visit with Mother Nature

I have confession. I HATE camping. I have tried it. It is not for me at all, so I will not recommend sleeping outside unless you’re into it. However, there are ways to connect with nature without sleeping outside. Go on a hike or tube down a creek or river. If you’re in the Huntsville/Madison Co area take a walk on one of the greenways throughout the county.  

Enjoy a drink with an umbrella

Nothing screams “I’m having fun” like a festive drink with an umbrella. Non-alcoholic, of course, for our underage and sober friends out there.  

Go on a vacation

Finally, if you can swing it, go on a vacation. Unplug the devices and reconnect with yourself and loved ones. See the sites. Do something you thought you never would. Eat fabulous food. Most importantly, take time to relax and recharge your batteries.