We’re sad to say it, but it’s just about time for these glorious summer days to come to an end. Abundant sunshine, hours upon hours spent outside, pool parties, beach days and vacations... It's no wonder the end-of-summer blues often start to creep in as everyone's most beloved season draws to a close. Fortunately, the season we get to transition into come with plenty of perks of its own.
It's easy to fall hard for fall—crisp air, the changing of the leaves, the holiday season kick off, yummy food, warm drinks and so much more. There is a lot for us to look forward to! But before you pull out the sweaters and order a PSL, check out our list of ways to give summer the sunniest send-off yet.
Throw an end-of-summer playdate.
Bring out the bubbles, fill up the water table, and serve up fruit kabobs, zucchini pasta salad, or caprese salad skewers. Popsicles are another no-brainer!
If you can finagle some childcare, consider a mamas’ end-of-summer spa day for some much-needed pampering after all that play in the summer sun.
Boost your mood with food.
Eat delicious, mood-boosting foods to help you stay happy and upbeat with the changing of the season. Zinc improves mood and stress levels, and some good sources include:
- cashews
- chickpeas
- pumpkin seeds
- sesame seeds
- shrimp
Also, fish (like salmon), dark leafy greens, whole grains, beans, asparagus, lemon, cherry tomatoes, pasture-raised eggs, carrots, unsweetened organic Greek yogurt, cacao powder and dark chocolate are great food options to help you feel upbeat. One of our favorite uplifting combos is hot tea with raw honey. Teas that are known for lifting your spirits and decreasing stress are St. John’s Wort, lemon balm and chamomile.
One last tip is to take vitamin D3 and fish oil. These are great for overall health, but can also help improve mood and psychological well-being. When fall and winter start, we won’t be in the sun as much to get all that vitamin D. So, it’s best to supplement in order to reap all the rewards of this energizing vitamin.
Sweat it out.
Staying active always gets those endorphins going and puts you in a positive mindset. Find something you love to do. Try out a new class, or wrap up your babe and take a long walk or hike outside. Depending on where you live, the summer heat can be brutal, so use the cooling temps as an opportunity to start taking your sweat sessions outdoors.
Refresh your wardrobe.
What is it about a fall wardrobe that feels so much more special than other seasons? Grab those boots you’ve been eyeing, a new cozy sweater, or a fun trendy jacket. A pair of jeans that look and feel good is another buy you won't regret.
Start a fall bucket list.
Write down a few fall activities you love—and even some activities you haven’t done yet, but want to! Some ideas to help you get your list started: apple-picking, bonfire + s'mores, cider and donuts, pumpkin patch, upping the hygge vibe in your home, making a big batch of soup, or baking your favorite pie.
It's time to soak up these last days of summer, friends—and start looking forward to fall!
