You, your inner-child, & summertime

“Instead of focusing on an outcome, make your priority to have more fun. Because if the only goal is to have fun, how can you fail?” -Gabby Bernstein

Happy July, friends! Summer is in full swing and the days seem to be  passing by quickly! For some people, summer can feel nostalgic and bring back sweet childhood memories of camps, vacations, and lazy days relaxing with family. For others, summertime may feel more stressful and there might be more pressure to keep family members busy/entertained while school is on pause. 

No matter how your days are shaking out, remember that you deserve to have elements of rest, play, and leisure during your summer season. If you have small children or you get to be a part of a small child’s life, it can be so fun to tap into the playful elements of your personality and to reconnect with your inner child. What activities did you love doing during your summers as a child/young teen? Jot these ideas down and keep them close by!

If you are looking  for some fun ideas on how to connect with your inner-child this summer, check out the list below: 

21 ways to connect with your inner-child this summer:

-Make a summer bucket list filled with your favorite activities

-Go to a farm stand and buy local produce 

-Make a flower arrangement 

-Have an outdoor picnic

-Go to a local farm & pick seasonal fruit (peaches are in season on the east coast now!)

-Paint, draw, or doodle just for fun 

-Go to an aquarium

-Look for seashells on the beach 

-Go for a nature walk 

-Watch your favorite childhood movie 

-Make a fun summer recipe 

-Do something you’ve never tried before 

-Play your favorite childhood sport 

-Explore a new coffee shop

-Go for a bike ride

-Explore a new neighborhood in your city 

-Check out your local library 

-Spend time near the water 

-Build something 

-Go for a road trip 

-Do something with your hands (bake, make art, play an instrument, pet a dog, paint your nails!)

Let me know if you try any of these activities in the comments below, I’d love to hear from you! As always, if you are looking for a therapist or have any therapy related questions, please don’t hesitate to reach out via phone (757) 434-5811 or via email : vbcounselingcollective@gmail.com