Five Mood Boosting Activities You Can Try as the Summer Comes to a Close and Autumn Begins
- Maddie Larkin, LCSW
- 8 hours ago
- 3 min read
Five Mood Boosting Activities You Can Try as the Summer Comes to a Close!
Both Summer and Autumn can be seasons full of excitement and fun, but they also come with stretches searching for things to do and sometimes it feels like you have to spend money just to enjoy yourself. Fortunately, there are plenty of budget-friendly activities that can lift your mood at little to no cost!Â
Spending time outdoors and connecting with nature has been shown through research to have a positive impact on mental health. Whether you’re solo or sharing the day with someone special, these simple activities can help you recharge and make the most of your days.
Morning Walks in the Sun – As the temperature gets slightly cooler as we head to the end of summer, the morning light is increasing. Morning walks help you avoid the midday heat while giving your body a healthy dose of sunlight and movement. Exposure to sunlight in the morning boosts serotonin and vitamin D, which helps improve mood and energy levels. It’s also a great way to build a consistent morning routine. Try adding in some outdoor stretching or yoga for an extra dose of movement and mindfulness.
Swimming – Whether it’s the ocean, a lake, or a pool, swimming is a refreshing mood booster even at the summer. Water naturally has a calming effect on the nervous system. Even if you’re not a fan of swimming, being near water such as hearing the waves, feeling the breeze, or watching the reflections—can activate the parasympathetic nervous system, which helps your body rest, recover, and reset.
Picnic – Pack a blanket, a hydrating drink, and your favorite snacks, then head to a nearby park or beach. Bring a book for a quiet read or a journal for a peaceful mind-dump session. You can also invite a friend and spend the day catching up, sharing laughs, and soaking in the atmosphere.
Start a Garden – Just because summer is coming to a close does not mean your vegetable garden needs to! There’s a whole cool-weather growing season to prepare for! Growing fresh herbs, fruits or veggies from home is a rewarding way to spend time outdoors each day. Gardening not only gets you moving and outside but also encourages healthier eating by adding more fresh produce to your meals. It’s a nourishing activity for both the body and mind.
Watch the Sunset – The sun is starting to set earlier nowadays. Take 15–20 minutes to slow down and enjoy the sunset. Try a mindfulness activity during this time: notice the colors in the sky, check in with how you’re feeling, and go through all five senses to truly ground yourself in the present moment. Mindfulness helps reduce stress, regulate emotions, and sharpen focus.
It’s important to set aside time for yourself, and the changing of seasons is the perfect opportunity to do just that. Take advantage of the sunshine with a little touch of crispness in the air. The natural boost of vitamin D will help you to focus on self-care, mindfulness, and exploring new hobbies. Whether it’s a peaceful walk, a swim, a picnic, or simply watching the sunset, these simple moments can have a lasting impact on your mental and emotional well-being. Make space for joy, connection, and balance this season- your mind and body deserve it!
If you're looking for a change in your wellness routine during the changing seasons, feel free to give us a call or reach out through our contact page.
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