Summertime is a period to relax and let loose from assignments and other commitments normally associated with college. Today, technology is a prevalent means of pastime and destress; however, it’s not always the best for wellness. Staring at a screen during free time is ok for a small period, but not consistently throughout the day. Sometimes the best activities to clear your mind can be those that involve just as much “fun” as technology. You may struggle to think about the possible options, but there are certainly some to help you destress. Here are some summertime activities sans the technology to help you stay refreshed and well:

Beach/Pool Days

A day at the beach is relaxing. Nothing is better than being in the water on a nice day with an occasional breeze. Seeing the waves or going in the water can be a refreshing experience, literally. However, if you don’t have a beach nearby, a day at the local pool is also sufficient. You are still cleansing yourself from all your previous stresses and rejuvenating yourself for the summer and beyond.

Sports

Playing sports recreationally can be great for your physical and mental health. Getting together with a team or a few people and playing ball a few times a week can be an excuse to get out of the house and meet up and have some fun. Sports is a means of bonding and showing passion in something. It can also help maintain relationships.

Yoga/Meditation

Nothing is better for inner peace than yoga or meditating. Taking the time to perform a meditation technique and clearing your mind of the schedules, plans, jobs, or future classes is a blessing, especially during the summer. Summertime is for enjoyment, so whatever makes you content and at inner peace is what you should do.

Going to the Park

Going to a park of any size, a small one, large one, a state park, beachside park, or national park is a great way to spend an entire day outdoors. Parks are ideal for activities such as walking, hiking, being with nature, holding a picnic, or playing catch. It’s also nice to get together with some other people and spend some time with them in the fast-paced, busy world we live in.

Taking A Vacation

No matter if it’s out of the country, a road trip, or flying somewhere domestic, a trip can be rewarding in experience, memories, and bonding with others. A solo trip can also help you learn about yourself and completely forget about stressful factors. Traveling is the type of activity that stands out on this list, as it can be the most destressing and truly enjoyable. Seeing new places, eating new food, and learning about different cultures is a great way to create life memories and forget about everything but the present.

Taking A Walk

Taking a walk can be a great peace of mind. It’s terrific physical activity, allows a clearance of thoughts (or maybe organization), and a chance to get out occasionally. This is especially true after a day of using a lot of technology or being at work all day. The best walks are around sunset, and it’s a mesmerizing sight to behold.

Meeting Friends

Meeting a friend or friends for an activity or just coffee/lunch is a great way to stay in touch with old buddies or even some people from your college. Just getting together and chatting for some time or participating in something together is good for your wellness and provides a chance to joke around and reminisce or look forward to the future.

Commitments and tasks will always be continuously popping up in your life. But in that shrouded pile of tasks, assignments, reminders, and hard work, make sure you keep your happiness visible and in your hands. It’s taking time out of your hectic schedule during the school year and your increased free time during the summer where you experience the wonderful moments in life, like spending time with friends/family, a trip, or even a great walk where you saw a rainbow. Hold onto your happiness with your tightest grasp because it is the most important, no matter what time of the year it is.