Embracing a Slower Summer
Oh, summertime—the season of sunshine adventures, barefoot play on the green grass, and sand literally everywhere. As mothers, it's easy to get caught up in the whirlwind of activities, playdates, and travel plans that accompany the summer months. However, amidst the flurry of excitement, it's important to remember the power of slowing down and embracing intentional motherhood.
Often, in motherhood we can feel overwhelmed. Would we feel more relaxed and intentional in motherhood if we slowed down? Let's explore how we can make the most of this summer by savoring the present moment and fostering meaningful connections with our children.
Embracing Simplicity: Summer provides the perfect backdrop for simplifying our lives and focusing on what truly matters. Take a step back and evaluate your family's commitments. Instead of overloading your schedule, consider leaving some blank spaces for spontaneous adventures or simply allowing for unstructured playtime. By intentionally choosing simplicity, you create room for more meaningful connections and memories. We know that unstructured play in childhood is powerful for growth and learning. The American Psychological Association (APA) highlights evidence based research in this article that points to all the benefits of free play.
Mindful Moments: In our fast-paced world, being mindful is a gift we can give ourselves and our children. Summer allows us to slow down and relish the beauty of the present moment. Whether it's a picnic in the park, a sunset stroll, or a quiet afternoon of reading under a shady tree, practice being fully present with your children. Engage all your senses and savor these precious moments, knowing that they are the building blocks of a strong bond.
Unplugged and Reconnected: Summer invites us to disconnect from the digital world and reconnect with our families. Create "unplugged zones" or designated technology-free days to encourage real-time interactions. Whether you embark on a family hike, have a board game night, or enjoy an afternoon of crafting, these moments of shared experiences build lasting connections and foster creativity.
Embrace Nature's Playground: Summer is the season of abundant natural beauty. And where I live, all Minnesotans know the importance of getting outside when it’s nice out! Take advantage of the long, sunny days and explore the great outdoors with your children. Plan family outings to the beach, go for nature walks, or organize camping trips. Encourage your children to engage with the environment, whether it's building sandcastles, collecting seashells, or simply lying down on the grass and gazing at the clouds. Nature has a way of grounding us and reminding us of the simple joys in life.
Cultivating Gratitude: Teaching our children gratitude is a priceless lesson that will serve them well throughout their lives. Research demonstrates how essential being grateful can impact our mental health too. (Read more on it here) Summer provides numerous opportunities to cultivate gratitude as we slow down and appreciate the little things. Encourage your children to keep a gratitude journal or have a daily gratitude sharing session during family meals. By focusing on the positive aspects of each day, we create a mindset of abundance and contentment.
As mothers, it's essential to remember that slowing down and being intentional is not a luxury but a necessity for our well-being and our children's development. Rest is active and should have high priority in our lives. Summer presents us with a unique opportunity to embrace simplicity, mindfulness, and gratitude. By unplugging, reconnecting, and immersing ourselves in the outdoors, we can create treasured memories that will last a lifetime.
Let's savor this summer, one intentional moment at a time, and watch our relationships with our children blossom in the process. Not sure how to start slowing down in motherhood? I love coaching moms in this area; to change mindset, improve our daily function and most importantly take care of our mental health. Schedule your free discovery call here to get started!
