Summer Musts Before Labour Day

Tim Irvine

Summer is never long enough, but if we put our minds to it, we can maximize our enjoyment.

Everyone I know has their favourite things to do in the summer. People who do things they love that bring them joy are healthier.

Here are seven things you should try to get in before the end of the labour day weekend.

1. Swing in a hammock.
   1. Research is sparse on the benefits of swinging in a hammock so let’s just go with the obvious. It feels great! To have all your weight supported and feel that gentle swing motion is just awesome. And since hammocks are almost always between two trees, you benefit from being below a big green canopy.
2. Have a three-swim day, including one in the moonlight.
   1. The feeling of dipping or jumping into refreshing water is such a mental reset on a hot day. Doing it three times in one day takes it to another level. The feeling of the water on your skin, the temperature difference, the buoyancy. So many unique feelings to enjoy. You are best to find a lake or ocean for this one, but always have a partner for safety.
3. Walk in the woods.
   1. There is ample research on the benefits of being in a forest. Time spent in and around trees naturally reduces physical and mental stress. We can all benefit from a break from the usual urban stresses.
4. Go barefoot on the beach or grass.
   1. Many people swear by this practice. Some suggest a positive energy transfer from earth to the body, but the research is inconclusive. Conclusively, going barefoot on uneven surfaces like sand forces the muscles of your feet and ankles to work how they are supposed to. Even better, it feels so, so good on your skin.
5. Soak up some sun.
   1. Getting direct sunshine has many proven health benefits. The most celebrated is the production of vitamin D. Dermatologists are right; too much sun can damage your skin, so make sure it is an appropriate amount for you. Choose the start or end of the day to avoid those intense mid-day rays.
6. Play in the rain.
   1. When was the last time you did this? For most adults, we can’t remember the pure joy of playing in the rain. Kids love to do it and always have a blast getting wet and dirty. Let your guard down and go have some fun in the rain. The laughs and smiles will be worth the laundry.
7. Watch the sunrise.
   1. Peace and quiet. We all crave this. There is no better time to get a dose than at sunrise in the summer. It’s also a great way to be mindful, which we all know is beneficial for our mental health.

You now have your checklist. See how many of them you can get checked off before labour day 2022 is in the background.