Summer is back in full swing. In many places in the U.S. and abroad, COVID restrictions are lifting, which means we can all get back to doing the things we enjoy. But having more choices for activities this summer can also be overwhelming, especially if you’re considering travel or visiting family members in areas where social distancing remains essential.
Here are some ideas to ease back into summer activities that are fun, healthy, and easily done at a distance.
Walks, runs, and hikes
If you live in a location with access to parks and trails, exploring the outdoors can help boost your mood, get your body moving, and help ease back into summer by making you feel connected to people and nature.
Set your own pace. Choose a scenic location. Invite a friend or family member to join you. And then, just… enjoy it. No need to overdo it at first—setting goals and making changes to your routine can be slow and intentional. Be sure to bring plenty of snacks and water as you ease back into your activity of choice. If you can, go earlier in the day or on weekdays to avoid crowds.
Outdoor classes
Whether you live in a smaller town or a big city, you’ve probably seen some outdoor group activities pop up over the course of the pandemic. Missing your favorite yoga class? Want to practice another language? Curious about meditation? With some quick research, you just might find that your favorite hobby is happening at a park near you.
Bring your mask, keep your distance, and stay open to learning or continuing your practice.
Backyard movie night
Stories can entertain us, teach us new things, and help us relax and relate to one another. If you love movies but aren’t quite ready to go back to the theater, why not host something in your backyard? Summer brings warmer weather and longer days, which means outdoor viewing is more comfortable. And with a classic movie selection and a few decorations, you can make it feel like an old-fashioned drive-in!
If you don’t have access to a backyard, or you’re not ready to host a group gathering, you can always make it virtual!
Cook something new
Try a new recipe, and pass it on. You can host or attend a potluck-style event with friends and family outdoors, and it only takes a little bit of advanced preparation to make it safe and socially distanced. Need ideas for recipes with immunity-boosting ingredients? Check out my favorite source for new recipes – Medical Medium Blog Recipes!
Remember to bring enough food to share, but include separate cutlery and dishes so that folks who are masking and social distancing can still participate.
Do some art (or admire it!)
Last but not least: art!
If you’re feeling uninspired or anxious about the start of summer this year, that’s completely understandable. We’ve all been through a lot in the last year and a half, and things that used to be easy might suddenly feel hard or fatiguing.
Whether you’re doing it yourself or admiring it from afar, art can help calm nerves and keep you feeling inspired. Some activities like dancing, drawing, or listening to music don’t require much in the way of space or supplies, so they’re an essential addition to a socially distanced summer.
If you’re more of an appreciator than a creator, you can also look into outdoor sculpture parks, plays, and free events in your area.
However you choose to ease back into summer and spend your socially distanced time this summer, I hope you find moments for connection and reflection. Here’s to health, healing, and happiness in the year ahead.
