Happy home, happy mind. This summer, focus on yourself. With the extra dose of vitamin D from all those sun rays, it’s a great time of the year to make improvements to your mental health. Taking care of your home can be just as important. Doing a little of both in a manageable way is the best form of self-care. The best part is that the two are often the same. When you improve the place you live, you’re also improving your mental health. From replacing pool spa supplies to actually using them, here are some quick ideas that are easy to fit into any schedule and focuses on either your household or your mental health.
Get Outside (and Garden!)
Being in sunlight is one of the most healing aspects of summertime. Getting outside is a great way to improve both your mental health and your home. Planting a garden, or potted plants if you don’t have much space, will add literal life to your home and will be a nearly meditative time (or just a time for meditation and peace, depending on your personal comfort). Depending on where you live, you can even grow vegetables or herbs. Bringing something you grew with your own hands can make a dish even more personal and much fresher.
Get the Pool Ready
Getting in the pool is one of the greatest childhood memories many have about summer. Be sure to get the right pool spa supplies before the weather starts warming up. Maintaining the pool can be a great way to clear your mind while also taking care of your house. Similar to tending to a garden, you’ll see your efforts pay off in a way your whole family can enjoy. It also gets you outside in the sun and feels active. In both scenarios, you can spend time alone doing regular maintenance or use it as a time to be both productive and social with your family.
Clean Up the Grill
Cleaning the grill is important before the first cookout. If your grill sat outside all summer, it could be pretty gunked up by summer time. A nice clean grill will have a positive mental impact by seeing the change in appearance as you work. Each stroke of the grill brush will get off a layer of charred food or rust, making it satisfying for mental health. In the end, you’ll see a drastic difference between start and finish, and then you’ll immediately experience the benefits of being able to use the grill.
Meditate Outside
Gardening can be a time to meditate, but you don’t have to garden to be mindful. If you’re not as into traditional meditation, try five minutes of mindfulness outside each day. It can be as simple as sitting on your front porch and taking in each moment. Think about how the seat feels below you and the sun feels on your face. A hot beverage, such as coffee or tea, can be perfect for this type of exercise. With each sip, feel the warmth in your mouth and as it goes down your throat. A few minutes of feeling each sensation and motion of your morning can ground your whole day. It’s even better in the summer since the weather is more cooperative and fewer layers are needed to tolerate the outdoors.
If you’re getting the pool ready for summertime fun, check out Pogue Supply for the best prices on pool maintenance with home delivery.
