It's finally summer! You passed all your classes, you moved yourself back home and you started your summer job. All you want to do now is become the best couch potato to ever grace your couch and embrace every opportunity to be lazy. I am here to tell you to stop immediately, do not spend the next two months on the couch. In fact, I am here to tell you how to have a healthy and happy summer.
1. Go outside!
You could do some yard work for your parents, work on a personal project, or go exploring somwhere. Breathe in the fresh air and soak up the sun.
2. Wear sunscreen
Make sure you don't get a sunburn! We all want a nice glow, but nobody wants a painful sunburn.
3. Drink water
Your body needs water to stay hydrated in this heat! Try replacing some of your sugary afternoon drinks, like soda and iced coffee, with a glass of water.
4. Read a book
You have to exercise your brain too! If you're taking foreign language classes at school, you might even try an easy novel in that language.
5. Work out a few times per week
Even if you don't like to work out, just try to be active. It can help sleep better at night, feel more energized, and you might grow to like it after all!
6. Don't fight with your parents and siblings
It might happen a few times anyway, but seriously, try to get along. You probably won't be living with them much longer and you should enjoy the time that you will spend together.
7. Don't spend time around toxic friends
If you're back in your hometown for the summer, don't hang out with that high school friend who always made you feel bad. Maybe this person has changed, but if they haven't you should seek healthier friendships.
8. Volunteer your time
Ask around at public libraries, food pantries, and parks. Now that school is out, a lot of families have more kids at home to look after and feed than they would during the school day. Get involved and give back to your community.
9. Wash your face
Again, it's hot outside. Make sure you wash the sweat and make up off your face to avoid breakouts.
10. Pamper yourself in general
Take the time to give yourself a mani-pedi or to make a face mask. You'll feel relaxed and ready to take on the world.
11. Make sure you get plenty of sleep
Make sure you're getting a decent amount of sleep at night. We all know we don't sleep enough during the school year, so now is the time to enjoy those precious hours. Don't sleep too much, but don't forget to indulge in a full night of shut-eye.
12. Have fun!
Take time for your favorite hobbies and people, or for a new hobby or new friends. Whatever you do, just make sure you spend some time to take care of yourself and feel great all summer long.
