Embracing Summer Softness

Admittedly, historically, I haven’t been a ‘sun loving’ creature- with sensory and body image issues, I have found huge discomfort in the summer season. But with time, I have stepped back to contemplate the positivity and general glow that this season brings.

Morning Rise

Getting out of bed, in the morning, is a struggle! I absolutely adore the frosty wakes, snuggled under my duvet with a coffee in hand. Softly stretching and easing in to the day- this is my most favourite start. Summer comes, however, intimidating us from our slumber- luring us out from our overheated buildings to be met with the most glorious views outside. Summer ensures that we elongate our days and make the most of them. A brisk walk, early doors, gets the heart pumping and adrenaline flowing; I find myself being most productive on my return and reap the benefits of this throughout my entire day.

Outside Entertaining

Who could resist a Great British BBQ? There’s nothing quite like a an outside get together, in the hotter months, to spark socialisation, as well as fun and games. Charred chicken, salads a plenty, paddling pool splashes and maybe the odd game of cricket and rounders- summer sure does have the ability to cater for age old memories, for years to come. Why not invite an old friend over for mocktails and a crayfish salad, under a big parasol? An iced coffee and a natter? I find, appreciating friends and family during the summer ensures a continued flow of communication during the darker months, when many are happier to spend their cosy evenings, indoors.

Home Grown Produce

Finally, we begin to harvest the fruits of our labour! Potatoes, tomatoes, chillis, strawberries, gooseberries, runner beans, pak choi, kale, courgettes and much, much more. For me, this is the essence of summer- the highlight! More and more people (possibly due to sky high cost of living!) are delving in growing their own food now and I couldn’t recommend it more. Obviously, I am lucky in that my parents take on a lot of the heavy work but I absolutely love returning home with a basket of fresh food to cook with. Lots of my recipes have now become seasonal and we look forward to certain dishes: sweetcorn fritters, gooseberry fool, courgette and lemon cake, every year.

Changing Landscape

Embrace softness by silently sitting and observing in one spot, regularly, throughout the year. Maybe that’s a destination, such as a forest or seaside, or a particular tree in your local park- and notice the changing landscape with the coming of Summer. Aside from the obvious, green lushness- what lies beyond? Look out for, and indeed listen, for wildlife, as well as activity within that space. You may like take photos or journal, as a mindful exercise- I like to write poetry!

Fancy embracing Summer mindfulness, through creative writing? Join my online, seasonal workshop here: Online Creative Writing for Mindfulness 7th July 8-9.30pm

Take care!

Billie xx