3 Tips to Prevent a Summer Crash
What is the summer crash, you ask?
You know when you work your butt off, and when you finally get a break you can’t move from the couch? It’s that. A crash feels like no energy and no motivation, even to do things you typically enjoy.
The summer crash can happen after feeling burned out, and is a problem for two reasons:
It can steal the joy from your summer!
After a crash we might feel like we need to overcompensate by pushing yourself particularly hard when the new school year starts. This can turn into a burnout cycle where you’re either overworking or zonked.
One way to avoid this crash is to include specific self-care rituals in your day, whether it’s the summer or the school year.
3 Tips to Prevent a Summer Crash
1 Include a ritual of rest in your day, every day.
Choose a restorative activity that speaks to you such as reading, journaling, napping, cloud gazing, sitting with a friend, playing with a pet, meandering, making art, meditating, etc. Choose a time of day you can stay consistent with over the summer. When the school year starts, bring this ritual of intentional rest with you.
2 Include a consistent routine of wholesome meals.
One of the best ways to support our nervous system is by eating consistent, balanced meals. Summer is a time where a lack of routine can make eating habits a bit wonky. I recommend keeping the structure of breakfast, lunch and dinner, and prioritizing a healthy balance of protein, healthy fats, carbohydrates and color on your plate. During the summer and school year, create a ritual of actually pausing to eat breakfast, lunch, and dinner, away from screens, work, and distractions. Use meals to be present with your food, your thoughts, and the people around you.
3 Maintain a bedtime and morning routine.
Maintaining a healthy circadian rhythm is just as important during the summer as during the school year. Set an alarm in the evening to remind yourself it’s time to wind down. Here are some req’s of what you might include in your bedtime routine.
In the morning, aim to wake up at a consistent time, and choose a few consistent activities to center yourself for the day. You might use the first hour of the day to get some movement in, journal, eat a balanced breakfast, or read a chapter of a book you’re enjoying. A morning and evening routine are super important, whether it’s summer or the school year.
More than anything, though, be gentle with yourself, and keep practicing a consistent routine of nourishment, care, and rest.