So it's May. More like, it's ONLY May. That means that there are three more months of summer left until we return back to school. It seems like a long way until we get to see our friends again, go back to learning what we're interested in and having a good time away from home. While we are home though, there are many things that we can do.
As summer 2016 approaches, it's time think about ways that we can become healthier individuals, and better ourselves for the upcoming semester. If freshman 15 hit you, there's still hope, and if the sophomore slump hit you, it's time to get back up. For juniors and seniors, don't let summer be completely taken over by internships and jobs. It's time to take control of these next few months for a brighter, healthier future for yourself.
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Food Exploration
It goes without saying that food is amazing. There is everything out there, if you know where to look. A new diet though does not mean you have to cut out everything you love. Being home alone is a big step to eating better because home cooking is 100% better for you than school food. Ask your mom or dad to help in the kitchen to learn how to do this stuff yourself. Enjoy your summer fruits because let's be real, who doesn't love mangoes? There are so many new things to try and to find out that you love. Take this summer to explore new foods and tastes.
Go Hiking
There are trails everywhere. Whether you're on Long Island, or upstate New York or even outside of New York, there is going to be somewhere to hike. It's exercising without the clock reminding you that you've only been running for three minutes when you feel like your legs are going to fall off. The outside world is so beautiful, and while you're breaking a sweat, you get to enjoy the views. Grab a friend, a water bottle and a pair of sneakers and be on your way.
Read a Book
This sounds super lame, but reading is a great escape and a great way to pass time. There is a book on everything out there if you look for it. Whether the book is electronic, a picture book or a 500 page novel, there is time to be spent reading. School assignments definitely ruin reading for people. It makes it a chore, instead of something of enjoyment, but it doesn't have to be like that. Exchange all your school textbooks for something worth reading this summer. You can read anywhere, and books never need to be charged or back lit.
Go to the Beach
The beach is like my summer home. There is nothing like sand in your toes, and the ocean waves. It's peaceful and something that can be done for an hour or many more. The beach is great at night to watch the sunset, or just to hang out with friends. During the day, you can get your tan on, and swim in the water. It's something that everyone can do. If your dad loves fishing and your brothers love surfing, they can all come along.
Reconnect with Old Friends
The summer is a great time to text people you haven't spoken with in a while. Let all the high school drama stay in high school, and go grab lunch with the people that you let go of. You don't have to be best friends again, but it's nice to see what people have been up to. Also, it's a time to see people that you did stay in contact with. Grab dinner, or just walk around. High school isn't forever, but your friendships can be.
Find Time for Yourself
The most important thing to do is learn to spend time alone. Find something you enjoy, or just sit in silence and think for yourself for a while. With no school work, stress or anything else to worry about, it's important to reflect back on everything and find things that you truly enjoy to do for yourself, and things that you want in life. Take time for yourself and find time for yourself.
Let this summer be about you, and finding stuff that make you better off as a person. Do things that will make your semester brighter, and everything else will fall into place with it.
