Living Your Best Life; A Guide To Summer Self Care 2019
When Andy Williams sang “It’s the Most Wonderful Time Of The Year” about Christmas he clearly was not thinking straight. Summer is CLEARLY the greatest time of year - the sweet smell of sunscreen, finding sand in your bed three weeks after going to the beach, tins in the park, bbq’s, what’s not to love.
As soon as the sun comes out people get nicer, the days go quicker and even going to work doesn’t seem quite so bad. With holidays booked and social engagements around every corner we thought it was a good time to put together our guide for LYBL (Living Your Best Life).
Whilst summer can rush by in a heady mix of Strongbow Dark Fruits and sunburn, it’s important to make sure you’re looking after your well-being; both mentally and physically. What many people call 'self-care' we like to think of as simple steps to LYBL.
Make the most of the sun, sea and whatever else you get up to with our comprehensive guide.
Get Off Of Instagram!
FOMO is real, people. Although you might joke about having it, the effect constantly being on social media can have on you is actually a lot more serious. Live in the moment, enjoy your summer with your friends and stop feeling sad about not going to EVERY event that’s happening.
Shop With Passion
Choosing to shop locally, independently, from vintage-stores will give you a smug glow, unattainable from any fake tan; doing good things will make you feel good too. Trying to shop from smaller retailers will also give you a great opportunity to discover small, independent designers and creators. Check out our curated holiday and festival edits for some sustainable summer shopping if you’re after a little bit of inspiration.
Mind Your Mindfulness
With parties and nights out and holidays and festivals all stacking up, dominating your summer weekends it’s important to ensure you take time to properly relax. Check in on yourself daily to ensure you’re doing things that make you happy and slowing down to calm your mind. You can read our interviews with two young female creatives Tahmina and Nawel to find out more about mindfulness if you’re not sure where to start. Try an app or some meditation or simple take half an hour to read a book. Here’s some recommendations:
- Generation X by Douglas Coupland
- Everything I Know About Love by Dolly Alderton
- Notes On A Nervous Planet by Matt Haig
- Mad Girl by Bryony Gordon
- The Psychopath Test by Jon Ronson
Hydration Station!
Hydrate. Drink your water. Drink it! Drink the water! Stay hydrated. Got it? Good. This is also a good opportunity for you to get yourself a super cute water bottle so you can hydrate whilst saving the planet - such a look.
Get Outta Here!
When the sun is shining and the days seem to stretch out into the night it’s a great opportunity to explore new places. Whether it’s a park near your house that you’ve never been to or a day trip to the beach, it’s a good time to get out and enjoy some nature. There’s nothing like some greenery and fresh air to help you feel completely rejuvenated!
Summer Lovin'
There’s nothing like a whirlwind summer romance so take this summer to love yourself. Banish negative feelings, this summer is all about self-acceptance, self-love, and self-appreciation. You never leave yourself on read, you won’t ghost yourself, you’re the ideal person to fall for. Summer clothes can feel daunting for anyone who has any body hang-ups (so, er, everyone) but now is the time to wear that crop top, wear whatever makes you feel comfortable happy and embrace your body.
If you are after some more summer inspiration for a fun and guilt-free summer, check out our blog on how to have your most sustainable summer yet, or if you’re heading off to a festival then check out our essential packing list.