"It's easy to lose touch with close friends and family throughout the year, but isolation can and will dampen anyone's mood. So, take the time to reach out to old friends and family for a lunch date or a fun evening out," says mental health and relationship expert, Rhonda Richards Smith. Summer vacations and long weekends are the perfect opportunity to reach out to friends and family around you and re-connect. Find new activities that you can all participate in together or bond over old traditions and memories.
"One of the most important aspects of health is social interaction. Bring friends together and connect with your friends and family while participating in group-related activities. This is a great way to focus on having good, clean fun to de-stress from your everyday problems that may overwhelm you from time-to-time," says Clancy.
Photo 5/6
Catch up on sleep
Sleep deprivation is not only bad for your health, but it can put you in a funk. Fitness expert and author Jenn Zerling stresses the importance of getting a good night's sleep during summer months: "The days are longer during summer time so bed time is generally pushed to a later hour. Unfortunately, the workdays begin at the same time. This leaves some people with less sleep each night, which can negatively affect one's mood the next day."
Make sure you sleep at least 7 hours a night, but watch out for over sleeping. If you get too much sleep, it will only make you more tired and leave you feeling grumpy. Find the perfect balance and you will have energy to last throughout your entire day.
Photo 6/6
Learn something new
Taking on a new activity or hobby will stimulate your brain and boost your mood through the excitement of a new challenge, meting new people, and working towards a goal. "Some activities to take on include learning how to sail, surf, play tennis, salsa dance, or simply take an art class or acting class. This will spice up your life a bit from daily monotony," says Zerling.
Summer can be the perfect opportunity to get active with a new sport. "With sports like basketball, tennis, or soccer we are able to look past the physical strain it puts on us to enjoy the game. Find a sport you are fond of or good at and try playing at least three times a week. This will keep you active and more likely to continue after summer is over," says Bruce Schlagel, CEO of Advanced Exercise Equipment.
