Festivals, visits to the beach, road trips, BBQs. There’s so much to look forward to during the sunny season, and our mission this summer is to make the most of each and every day.
We’ve teamed up with leading mental health charity, Aware, to bring you seven simple ways to help all of us stay positive this summer.
1. Accept that things won’t always go your way
While we all have lots of plans for the summer, planes do get delayed, the rain will come and we might get let down by people. Accepting that sometimes things just do not go our way can be an important first step in coping well with challenges that come our way.
2. Put things into perspective
Sometimes we can forget when things are difficult that other easier, nicer times are not too far away, waiting for us.
3. Do something each day that you know you’ll enjoy
Having something small to look forward to every day is really important. From planning a walk through a nearby park, a catch up with a friend or a nice cup of coffee first thing in the morning, it’s easier than you think to incorporate these into your day. You get the benefit of looking forward to it, the joy of doing it, and the memories of happiness that come with it too.
4. Keep it simple
Think back on all the fun you had as a little kid during the summer months. Racing your siblings into the sea, enjoying that first lick of a 99 cone, camping in the back garden. All of those things can still be done and enjoyed just as much.
5. Live in the present
In the summer, time can be our best present. We are blessed that we have long days and that it can still be warm and bright at 10pm at night. Take some of that time each day and simply ‘be’. The practice of mindfulness is increasingly popular and there is a lot to be said for being present in the given moment and enjoying the sights, sounds and sensations that are part of it.
6. Everything in moderation
From sun-bathing to nights out with our friends, it’s important to enjoy everything in moderation. Stay protected when you’re in the sun, be aware of your alcohol intake. We all know the impact too much of it can have on our mood and behaviour. It is much better to enjoy your day or evening without ending up in a dangerous situation because of over-indulgence.
7. Make the most of making the most
The great thing about taking advantage of the long summer days is that we can create fantastic memories to enjoy long after the summer is over. Get yourself a notebook, write a few notes down each day on what you enjoyed and why. You won’t believe the collection you’ll have gathered when you look back at the end of the year.
Enjoy fresh air, good food, great company (even if it’s your own!) and make time for what you enjoy this summer!
For anyone who might be dealing with an experience of depression or concerned for a loved one, Aware continues to provide its support and information services throughout the summer months. Visit aware.ie for more information.
Aware will be marking its 30th anniversary with a fabulous pearl themed fundraising ball taking place at the DoubleTree by Hilton, Burlington Road on Saturday, 3rd October 2015. Tickets are on sale now here – a special early bird rate of €100 applies ‘til July 15th.
Hosted by Ryan Tubridy with a special performance by Riverdance, the Ball is proudly supported by Hyundai Ireland and Appleby Jewellers and there will be some fabulous spot prizes and entertainment on the night.
