Warm weather, barbecues, fresh air, long days and school holidays - what’s not to love about the summer season? Do you have a favourite summer pastime? Or do you just feel happier and more relaxed when the sun is out and the nights are light and long? Read on to discover some of the many reasons why we love the summer season!
1. Sunshine!
Nothing beats the feeling of drawing back the curtains in the morning and seeing glorious sunshine beating down. Warm, sunny weather instantly lifts your mood, motivating and energising you, ready for the day ahead. The sun also boosts your immune system and supports healthy bone development by providing you with a good dose of vitamin D.
2. Long Days
Longer and lighter evenings mean more time to spend enjoying ourselves in the company of our friends and family. While wintertime brings complete darkness by 4 pm, it doesn’t get dark until around 9 pm in the summer. So take the opportunity that light evenings bring to try out a new and exciting activity or spend a few precious hours in a beer garden with friends.
3. Day Trips
Day trips are the best, especially when you can head out all day without worrying about getting caught in the rain! Whether heading to the beach or the local countryside for fresh air and a picnic, make the most of the long days! There are so many magnificent places to visit in the UK that you will be spoilt for choice. Just remember to pack your sun cream and bucket and spade!
4. Picnics
Nothing could be more summery than packing up your picnic hamper and blanket. Picnic foods are super tasty and there is something very relaxing and comforting about eating out in the fresh air while surrounded by nature. Before heading out, take some time to pack everything that you might need. Think about what everybody likes to eat and pack a delicious treat for everyone. You could even pack a bottle of wine or prosecco to make it special!
5. Blue Skies
When you look up and see a clear blue sky, you instantly feel calmer, happier and more positive. Blue skies can be an instant balm for the soul. In fact, researchers from the University of Sussex have shown that exposure to the colour blue can boost your confidence and happiness and help to cut stress levels.
6. Barbecues
The smell of hot dogs and burgers sizzling on the barbecue - that's the true scent of summer! Barbecues are the perfect opportunity to invite your friends and family for an afternoon of socialising in the sun. Grilled to perfection - anything tastes good when barbecued! Barbecues are versatile, from ribs to burgers or vegetarian options if you prefer. You are sure to keep everyone happy. So what are you waiting for? Grab your charcoal and some tongs and get going!
7. Ice Cream
While ice cream is delicious all year round, it tastes better when the sun is shining and you need to cool down! So if you can’t wait for your local ice cream van to do the rounds, head to your nearest supermarket and stock up on a tasty selection of ice cream and lollipops.
8. School Holidays
School’s out for summer! No rushing around in the morning getting ready for the school run or hunting desperately for a clean school uniform. The summer holidays provide an excellent opportunity for parents and their children to reconnect and spend time doing fun and exciting activities. Children need to make the most of this time to relax and refresh after a busy year.
9. Summer Clothes
Pack your thick winter clothes away and embrace shorts, t-shirts and flip-flops! Summer style is all about colour, simplicity and comfort. Enjoy leaving the house with just a few simple layers on. Bright summer colours and feel-good floral patterns are bound to put a smile on your face and a spring in your step!
10. Time Spent Outdoors
Summer allows us to spend a lot more time in the great outdoors, enjoying the benefits of fresh air and an active lifestyle. There is so much to explore, and outdoor activities can be fantastic learning experiences for children.
11. Family Holidays
You will have a fantastic time wherever you are heading on your family holiday. We’ve all worked super hard all year long and the annual family holiday gives us time to relax and recuperate. A family holiday also provides us with the chance to make precious family memories that we will keep forever.
12. Summer Food
Fresh seasonal fruit, delicious picnic food and barbecued burgers - summer food is certainly tasty! Why not take the kids for a morning trip to a “pick your own” farm to stock up on fresh, seasonal fruits to snack on? Pair your delicious food with refreshing summer drinks, such as freshly-squeezed lemonade or a fruity smoothie.
There are so many reasons to love summer. Take the time to notice the things that make you happy during the summer months and do more of these!
