magickal summer days

Growing up in a lakefront community, I have vivid memories of long, lazy summer days spent on the lake, boating, swimming, and fishing by day, then napping on a hammock and watching for fireflies as the sun set late in the day. I've carried those memories with me into my adulthood, and although I no longer live at a lake, I still find ways to create that same summertime magick that I'll share with you here.

benefits of lazy summer days

Before getting into my favorite summertime tips, you may be wondering whether it's worth making the effort. Aren't long, hot days enough of an enjoyment in and of themselves? Well, actually, the summer heat and longer days can actually wreak havoc on our schedules, making commuting to and from work hot and sticky or falling asleep at night almost impossible. The kids are off from school, so we often have to add day camp into the schedule or find other means of childcare if both parents work outside the home. There are festivals, fairs, family gatherings, and vacations to plan - all leading to a super busy time that zaps our energy instead of revitalizing it. 
The good news is that by carving out just a little time for rest and relaxation during the summer months, we can reap the rewards well into the future. By using this time to reduce stress and load up on the bounty that the summertime has to offer, we can head into the shorter, colder days with a stronger immune and nervous system, warding off colds and illness. 

summertime basics

To make the most of these long, hot days, we first need to cover some basics related to food, water, and shelter:

• Hydration is key if you're spending a lot of time out in the sun and heat. I like to make up an infusion of fresh lemon balm with a little added lavender and mint for a super refreshing, nutritious, and calming alternative to plain water. Cover approximately 2 cups of fresh lemon balm and 1 Tbsp each of fresh lavender and mint with enough just boiled water to fill a 32oz heat proof glass container and let steep for 10-15 minutes (substitute dried herbs at approximately 1/4 the volume if needed - you can purchase organic dried herbs in the shop HERE). Strain out the herbs and store in a large covered glass container in the fridge for up to two days and enjoy over ice.
• Eating smaller, lighter meals makes sense during the summer months. Our bodies won't be burning as many calories to keep warm, so our metabolism tends to slow down a bit. You may also want to consider prepping meals ahead so that you can enjoy all those outdoor activities. My mother used to cook dinner early in the morning when the kitchen was still cool (no A/C back in those days) and pack us a lunch to enjoy at the lake. 
• While we often find ourselves moving from one air conditioned environment to another (think house to car to office), it's not the best for us mentally or physically. These summer days were made for re-connecting to the world around us. Get out into nature as much as possible. Walk barefoot in the grass or sit out under the stars at night to truly enjoy what this season has to offer us.

lazy day ideas

As I said earlier, the summer can slip away in a heart beat if we get caught up in all the planned activities. But don't be dismayed, carve out just a little extra time with these ideas below (not arranged in any particular order) and you will reap the rewards many times over:

• make your weekend breakfast out on the grill 
• stock board games on a covered porch to draw the kids out to play
• pack a good book, quilts and a pillow and head out to a hammock or chaise lounge for a quiet read and perhaps a well-needed nap
• fill a small wash tub with warm water, add some fresh flower petals and epsom salts for a relaxing foot soak (seated under a shade tree is even better!)
• take your yoga mat outdoors and stretch out while convening with nature
• head to a local farmers' market and load up on local, organic produce and meats
• check your local listings for garage or yard sales and go hunting for a vintage treasure
• find a good vantage point and watch the sunset
• check for a local outdoor movie night (or, if you're luck enough to have a drive-in theater nearby) and enjoy a good film under the stars
• head outside and make a recording of nature sounds to replay when you're feeling stressed

enjoy the magick of summer

However you can, take a few moments every day to enjoy this magickally abundant days of summer. When the winds turn and the cold air beckons us to cuddle up indoors, you'll be happy you did.