Looking after our mental health is so important and with the summer now upon us, that can present us with a real opportunity to put more focus on it.
With warmer weather and more daylight hours, we spend more time outdoors, as well as more hours socialising and being active. UKAT London, a mental health clinic London based encourages many of its patients to maximise their outdoor time, connecting with nature and being active, while that’s also the case for mental health facilities up and down the country. And who are we to argue with the experts?
So, if you want to keep on top of your mental health over the coming months, here are five great summer activities that could make all the difference…
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Walking in Nature
Firstly, you could actually enjoy something as simple as getting out in nature. This can significantly reduce stress, whether you take a walk in the local park, head on a woodland trail or head out on a coastal path.
It’s a chance to disconnect from the pressures of daily life and reconnect with the natural world with the sights, sounds and smells having a real calming effect. In the summer months, nature is at its most vibrant and provides beautiful scenery that makes a walk even more enjoyable.
You’ll also feel the physical benefits of walking regularly, which in turn will support mental health too.
Outdoor Swimming
Wild swimming has long been growing in popularity and taking a dip in a lake, river or even the sea can provide you with a real mental boost. The cool, or in some cases cold, water can stimulate the release of endorphins, improving mood and reducing anxiety.
Meanwhile, you’ll be immersed in nature which can further promote mindfulness and relaxation. Of course, you do need to make sure that you’re swimming in designated areas and nowhere dangerous, while you should ideally not swim alone. Even a quick dip or short paddle can leave you feeling refreshed and invigorated.
Gardening
If you’re lucky enough to have a garden, then get out in it. It’s an incredibly therapeutic activity that can combine gentle exercise with the soothing effects of nature. Planting, weeding and tending to plants can place you in the moment and provide you with a real sense of purpose and achievement.
During the summertime your garden will flourish, and being surrounded by that can also have a hugely positive impact on your mental health. You don’t need a large space to make the most of gardening, in fact a few pots on a balcony can be enough to provide you with that quiet, contemplative space to relax and reflect.
Group Exercise and Outdoor Classes
Summer offers the perfect chance to take exercise outdoors. Many communities host open-air yoga classes, group fitness sessions, or running clubs during the warmer months. Participating in group exercise not only provides physical health benefits but also fosters social connections, which are essential for mental wellbeing.
The combination of physical activity, fresh air, and positive social interaction can help combat feelings of isolation and boost self-esteem. Whether it’s a yoga session in the park, a cycling group, or a casual game of tennis, engaging in group exercise can leave you feeling energised, supported, and uplifted.
Creative Outdoor Activities
Engaging in creative pursuits is another excellent way to support mental health. Summer provides endless inspiration for photography, painting, sketching, or writing. Being outdoors while engaging in creative activities can enhance the calming effects, as you draw from your surroundings and allow your mind to focus on the task at hand.
Creative activities encourage self-expression, reduce negative thoughts, and offer a constructive outlet for emotions. Even simple activities like journalling in a park or sketching a landscape can provide significant mental health benefits.
