The summer is at its height. And while many view this as a cause for celebration, partying outdoors and enjoying time with friends (albeit in a responsible and socially distanced way), no all of us feel like celebrating. Indeed, some of us might actually feel a creeping sense of depression in the summer. And the oppressive heat combined with feeling sweaty and lethargic can further add to your loss of energy, appetite, libido and everything else that ends spice to your life.

While we tend to think of winter when it comes to Seasonal Affective Disorder, the “summer blues” are a legitimate psychological phenomenon. Around this time of year, some people feel as though the sunlight and heat are literally sapping all of their energy and this can lead to greater lethargy, depression and sadness. However, while it may seem as though all you can do is recline on the sofa and immerse yourself in binge-watching shows on Netflix, this can create way more problems than it solves. The cure for depression is action. But heading to the gym in your current state might seem about as viable as leaping a tall building in a single bound. Here are some gentle actions that you can take that will alleviate depression and lethargy…

Tai Chi

Many people with the summer blues often feel stressed and anxious in ways that exacerbate their depression. The gentle movement, soothing actions and group dynamic of tai chi can be a tremendous boon for your mental and physical health. Unlike more explosive martial arts, tai chi is extremely gentle and highly therapeutic. Check out taichiforhealthinstitute.org for more information. It’s a great way to build bodily awareness, flexibility, core strength and mindfulness, just like the next entry on our list…

Yoga

The physical and mental health benefits of yoga are well documented. From boosting your mood to increasing flexibility and strength and improving your metabolism, yoga does it all. The beauty of yoga is that you can challenge yourself as much or as little as your needs dictate. You don’t have to twist yourself into challenging poses to enjoy the mental health benefits. 

Mindfulness Meditation

If even the slightest amount of exercise seems like an impossible struggle, perhaps you just need to take action in a gentler way. Turn off the TV, get off the sofa, find somewhere calm and quiet (ideally outdoors) and try some Mindfulness Meditation. This can help you to organise your thoughts, reduce stress and improve your sense of wellbeing one breath at a time!

Walking barefoot on grass

Finally, you don’t need to run, jump and sweat to shake the blues. Sometimes a simple barefoot walk in your garden or on any patch of earth or grass can bring amazing benefits. Grounding our bodies can help us to rid them of dangerous free radicals, combat inflammation and even boost our mood. 

With a healthy diet that’s filled with fresh plants, proper supplementation and a positive, determined attitude, you can kick the summer blues and bring the colour back into your life before the coming of fall.

by Contributing Author