Bloom in Summer: How to Truly Enjoy the Season (Even If It’s Not All Sunshine)
Guest Blog, written by community member – Clare Moller
Bloom in Summer: How to Truly Enjoy the Season (Even If It’s Not All Sunshine)
Now that we’re well into summer, everything around us—including us!—is blooming. The long days, lighter evenings, and nature in full expression make this a beautiful time of year. But while summer often feels like the happiest season, it’s not without its challenges.
In this blog, we’ll explore how to make the most of your summer bloom, using mindfulness and self-awareness to support your wellbeing—because yes, even in summer, we need it.
Why Mindfulness Still Matters in Summer
It’s easy to assume that sunshine and warm weather mean automatic good vibes. But that’s not always the case. Our wellbeing still needs care and attention—perhaps even more so than in the darker months, when we expect to feel a bit lower and take steps to support ourselves.
Surprisingly, research shows that Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD) isn’t just a winter issue. Around 1 in 10 people can experience a form of SAD in summer too. The causes might differ, but the emotional toll can be just as heavy.
Here’s why some people may struggle during the warmer months:
Increased temperatures: Heat can raise cortisol levels (your stress hormone), and lead to symptoms like fatigue, nausea, and palpitations.
High humidity: This can cause dizziness, dehydration, and general discomfort.
Disrupted routines: Holidays and school breaks can throw us off, leaving us feeling ungrounded.
Parenting pressure: School-aged children need extra care and entertainment during summer, which can be draining.
Financial strain: The pressure to book holidays, attend events, or keep up with others can stretch budgets and create anxiety.
FOMO and social media: Seeing others’ ‘perfect’ summer lives online can leave us feeling like we’re not doing enough—or not doing it right.
So while summer might look like the happiest time of year, it isn’t immune to stress and emotional strain.
Mindful Dos and Don’ts for Summer Wellbeing
To really enjoy what this season has to offer, we need to be mindful of how we’re showing up for ourselves.
Don’t:
Skip hydration. Dehydration impacts your mood, energy and ability to focus.
Overexpose yourself to the sun. Sunburn messes with your sleep and zaps your energy.
Say yes to every social invite. Summer can get hectic—protect your peace.
Lose all sense of structure. While slowing down is lovely, a complete lack of routine can leave you feeling unmoored.
Do:
Schedule downtime. You don’t have to do everything. It’s okay to have days just for you.
Talk to someone. If summer feels overwhelming, you're not alone. Reach out.
Plan things to look forward to—but also allow space to say no.
Maintain a light routine. A gentle rhythm helps you feel grounded and focused.
Stay hydrated. Your mood (and body) will thank you.
Get out in the sun—safely. Soak up vitamin D and boost serotonin, your natural feel-good hormone.
Spend time in nature. Everything’s in bloom—smell the flowers, feel the warmth, listen to the sounds of summer.
Keep a gratitude journal. Small moments of appreciation help anchor you in the joy of now.
Summer’s Invitation
Summer invites us to slow down, bask in the light, and come alive in our own way. It’s not about keeping up appearances or packing our calendars—it’s about noticing what truly feels good.
So, be kind to yourself. Take time to notice:
The beauty of flowers in full bloom
The scent of summer air
The lighter skies and joyful sounds
The way your body and mind respond to warmth and light
Write about what you’re grateful for. Say no when you need to. Say yes when it fills you up. Let this season support you—not exhaust you.
Summer, like all seasons, is short. Soak it in. Stock up on sunshine and joy while you can. And remember: your wellbeing matters just as much now as it does in the depths of winter.
Here’s to blooming—your way.
About the author: Clare comes to Pause & Breathe and has been involved in our community for the last 5 years. She has an interest in writing and shares her blogs with us regularly.