Self Care in the Sunshine
How many of us long for lighter nights, itching to get outdoors the second the sun comes out? I remember being told as a child to “go out and play with this fine day”, staying outside until dinner with endless light nights ahead.
While sunshine is wonderful, prolonged heat can quietly turn up the pressure on our mental health. If you are feeling extra tired, irritable, or overwhelmed right now, you are not alone. There is real science behind it!
The truth about heat and our bodies
Cortisol Spikes: When our body works hard to cool down, our stress hormone (cortisol) rises. If you are also navigating perimenopause or menopause, cooling down takes even more physical energy.
Sleep Struggles: Our bodies need to cool down to reach deep sleep. High temperatures disrupt melatonin, leaving us with fragmented sleep, lower energy, and higher anxiety.
The Pressure to Have Fun: We often feel we MUST fill every sunny day with activities, especially if we have children at home. Pushing through lowers our reserves when we should be replenishing them.
The Summer Drinks Trap: Extra iced coffees or evening drinks can mask dehydration, leading to brain fog, fatigue, and mood swings.
A few easy ways to take care of yourself –
– Give yourself permission to do low energy, low cost activities.
– Move big decisions or heavy tasks to the morning when it is cooler.
– Keep bedrooms cool with fans or blinds to protect your sleep.
-Stay hydrated to keep brain fog at bay.
Have fun and enjoy the weather, but remember: it is completely fine if you do not feel 100% happy or energetic just because it is sunny outside. It is always okay to take a break and seek support, whatever the weather. 
#MentalHealthMatters#SunshineSafety#SelfCare#Wellbeing#MentalHealthSupport#SummerWellbeing#SelfCareTips
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