The summer is the perfect time for exploring the great outdoors. Thinking back to when you were young, these longer days were filled with trips to the park, the beach and more. There is a joy with being outside and unplugging for the summer. It’s a time to relish nature in all its glory.
With the technology boom, those enjoyable hot summer days have shifted gears. Moments that were once spent playing tag or reading a book has turned into playing a game or scrolling on social media. It’s easy to get caught up and use your phone, letting the day pass you by. However, with summer flying by, it’s time to pause and reevaluate the constant need to scroll.
Here are tips on how to unplug and set the phone down for screen-free summer.
Feel the Sun on Your Skin
The days are longer, which means there is more sun. Put down your phone for an hour and go for a long walk. Sit outside on your porch or balcony and watch the sunrise or sunset. Go to the park and throw around a frisbee or play a game of volleyball.
Getting outside and spending time in nature has proven to lower stress levels, improve focus, and encourage you to move your body. Resist the urge to document it. Just get outside, play and enjoy nature.
Prepare a Fun Summer Recipe
Eating seasonally is great for your wallet and your health. Compared to food that is shipped overseas or across state lines, in-season, locally grown produce is full of nutrients and fresher. Unplug this summer and head over to your local farmers market. Stock up on the summer’s freshest produce. Cucumbers, strawberries, blackberries, blueberries, avocados, bell peppers, and watermelon are just some of the fruits and veggies that are ripe for picking in the summer.
Read a Book
Whether you dreaded or loved your summer reading lists as a kid, this is the perfect season to return to this beloved pastime. Put together a summer reading list, and dive in. Whether you are looking for a book of poetry, self-help books, or a read that will inspire your Black girl magic, there’s a world of books to explore.
Listen to Good Music
Making a summer playlist is a rite passage. Documenting your summer with songs that made it memorable and fun is a great way to let your hair down and relax. Your summer playlist will be great for long road trips, summer travel, backyard kickbacks, barbeques and time at the beach.
Take in the Season
In every season of the year, there are seasonal activities that you can enjoy. In the summer, there are typically music festivals, carnivals, and outdoor movie screenings to partake in. Get outside and enjoy them.