Have a Relaxing, Stress-free Summer

Photo: Hawaii Beach at Sunset

We all look forward to a little rest and relaxation from our demanding, sped-up lives. Although most of us will be working during the summer, there are ways to de-stress and rejuvenate to keep us balanced and happy.

  1. Enjoy your “Hawaii time.” Lucky for us, we can truly take advantage of our “Hawaii time” motto and remember to slow down. Embrace a carefree spirit when not at work. Don’t feel rushed to be everywhere and do everything you need to do. Summertime is a great excuse to go into vacation mode and unwind.
  2. Spend time outdoors. We have some of the best weather, water, and natural landscape there is. It’s no wonder #Luckywelivehawaii is such a popular hashtag. The outdoors can have a very calming effect on the body and mind. If you’re in an office most of the day, go on a 10-minute stroll outside for some natural sunshine and fresh air. You’d be surprised how recharged it can make you feel. For great outdoor ideas check out Explore Our State Park Trails.
  3. Mindfully prioritize.  Most of us have too much to do with not enough time to do it all. You don’t have to feel frustrated and overwhelmed. Be organized and create a list of important tasks that have to be done now and tasks that can be done at a later time. Know your limits. You don’t always need have a full plate to be productive and efficient. 
  4. Unplug. The regular use of technology goes hand-in-hand with a fast-paced lifestyle. Screen time can be over-stimulating and even stressful. Leave your work at work. Disconnect from technology and reconnect with nature. Host outdoor cookouts to Increase your personal quality time& with family and friends (no mobile devises allowed!). Mostly, enjoy the outdoors and the peace and tranquility of being unplugged.
  5. Get in some personal time. Take a yoga class, a relaxing stroll on the beach, or curl into a good book. You can also create a 15 minute morning ritual of “me time”:
    • Drink 2 glasses of water upon waking to rehydrate your body;
    • Spend 5 minutes on self-reflection;
    • Do a 5-10 minute stretching workout to bring fresh blood and oxygen circulating through the body.
  6. Eat healthy. Sugar, refined carbohydrates, processed and fast foods all contribute to stress and inflammation in the body. Aim to eat more whole, unprocessed foods including vegetables (cooked and raw), fruits, whole grains, beans and lentils, and nuts and seeds. These foods help reduce inflammation and stress while truly nourishing the body and preventing disease.
  7. Remember to breathe. Deep breathing is one of the most simple and effective tools to relax the nervous system and calm the mind. It is the cornerstone of most relaxation techniques. Take a few minutes out of each day and breathe deep using this simple method.