Reclaiming Joy: Mindfully Embracing the Outdoors and Savoring the Summer!

As a child, summers always seemed to fly by—a whirlwind of excitement filled with swimming, barbecues, playing basketball at the park, family reunions, and block parties. Yet, before we knew it, we were back-to-school shopping. Even as adults, it’s easy to let summer slip away, leaving us wishing we had spent more time with family, enjoyed street festivals, traveled, or simply relaxed with old friends. However, we can truly embrace the joys of summer by taking a moment to appreciate each warm day, one step at a time.

Step Outside

The first step to shaking off boredom, anxiety, or that heavy feeling is simply to step outside. Recall those carefree childhood days—dashing through sprinklers, chasing fireflies at dusk, playing hide-and-seek, or eagerly waiting for the ice cream truck. I still remember my Dad’s words: “Be in this house before the street lights come on!”

I encourage you to choose a spot in your neighborhood or a nearby park you haven’t yet explored. Plan a walk, treating it as an adventure waiting to unfold. As you stroll, take a moment to feel the air on your skin, listen to the rustling leaves as the wind passes through them, and catch the shadows of leaves dancing on the pavement. Look up and see if you can spot a bird soaring overhead.

Even in a bustling city or while running errands, beauty is all around. For example, notice how sunlight sparkles off building windows, hear the roar of sports cars zipping by, or soak in the laughter of children playing. You might discover charming sidewalk chalk drawings or playful hopscotch patterns on the concrete.

When we shift our focus, we also shift our perspective. As you walk, challenge yourself to find at least five things you’ve never noticed before or five things that fill you with gratitude. You may be surprised at the richness of your surroundings.

Step Up Your Summer Recreation

Summer is brimming with opportunities for outdoor sports and activities with friends. You don’t need to run a marathon or attend every sunrise yoga class to stay active—though you certainly can if you wish!

With so many options for outdoor fun, it’s essential to be intentional to avoid feeling overwhelmed. Choose one activity each week or every couple of weeks, committing to it without the pressure to perform.

Letting go of expectations allows you to enjoy the activity for its own sake. Fun ways to stay active with friends this summer include:

• Pickleball

• Baseball or softball

• Basketball

• Walking, hiking, or cycling

• Going to the gym

• Swimming

You might also enjoy more leisurely activities like attending outdoor concerts, gardening, nature walks, picnics, and even camping. The key is to be present and take advantage of the joyful experiences summer has to offer.

Dive Right In

If you’re near inviting waters this summer, even walking to the edge of a lake, ocean, or river can enhance your mindfulness. Hearing the waves crash on the shore or feeling the breeze on your skin opens your awareness to the myriad opportunities for mindfulness that surround you.

Reclaiming Outdoors for African-Americans

As highlighted in a 2023 article by Jazmin “Sunny” Murphy from YES! Magazine, titled “Black Americans Re-Embrace the Outdoors After Generations of Exclusion,” Murphy stresses, “It’s time for us to go back and reconnect.” Nature has long been a place of healing and joy for Black communities. This article reflects on historical injustices while celebrating the reclamation of outdoor spaces. For further insights, please read Black Americans Re-Embrace the Outdoors After Generations of Exclusion.

Acknowledging Walk-N-Talk™ Therapy

Therapist Glenn Sevier, LCSW, PEL created and established Walk-N-Talk™ Therapy in 2003 as an innovative modality to engage high school students in counseling sessions. After witnessing its positive effects, he integrated this method into his private practice, where clients embraced this fresh perspective. Since then, similar initiatives have spread globally, offering new pathways for individuals on their mental wellness journey.

Walk-N-Talk™ Therapy provides numerous benefits for clients. It fosters physical and mental distance from stress, cultivates self-awareness, and connects individuals with nature in ways that resonate with their lifestyles. Clients often report feeling calm, clear, focused, and energized after these sessions.

Walk-N-Talk™️ Therapy addresses the following: Mental Health -  Anxiety  Anger Management or Conduct Disorder  Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD)  Chemical Dependency  Depression  Grief and Loss  PTSD and Trauma Healing Physical Health -  Lower Blood Sugar  Lower Cholesterol  Lower Blood Pressure * Decrease Stress and Anxiety Authentically Human; Not AI-Generated To learn more about Walk-N-Talk™ Therapy and how it can benefit you, contact Glenn at 773-512-8813 or send an email at [email protected]. You can also check out Glenn's website (www.AdvancePotential.com) for more details about the physical, emotional and mental effectiveness of this innovative approach.