Happy Monday, friends!
It’s JUNE!!!!
Today, I thought we’d take a minute to encourage/support/remind each other to use this summer season and show a little…
Based on your emails, comments and DMs, we started our year super strong in the self-care department, but in my opinion (thanks to a more relaxed schedule) this summer season is actually the EASIEST time for me to slow down, revaluate, tweak my routine and take better care of myself. Whether we’re adding new things or just fine-tuning the basics, I find this to be a really great “refresher” season.
Here are some things I’m going to really concentrate on this season, and then, if you feel inclined, I would love to read your list in the comment section too. I always get so encouraged (and learn so much!) by what YOU’RE doing.
Here is what I’m going to focus on this summer:
1: MORE SLEEP
I think you guys know this by now, but this is an area where I was previously doing the least amount of self-care. It was actually last summer that really encouraged me to rethink how much sleep I was consistently getting. (You can read about it HERE.) This last week, I was able to get into bed by 9:30 or 10:00 each night and sleep until 5:30 or 6:00 which was glorious. My goal this summer is to get at least 7+ hours of quality sleep every night.
2: INTERMIITTENT FASTING
You know I’m a BIG fan!! I’m looking at IF in a whole new way this year compared to how I previously thought about it. Not only do I encourage you to read Cynthia Thurlow’s book on Intermittent Fasting, but I also really love this one too…
…Dr. Jason Fung’s book! Both books (and their podcasts!) are really clear that you don’t have to do a long fast every day, but that it’s so beneficial to do a “clean fast”. So even if you want to enjoy breakfast, lunch and dinner each day (and have a shorter digestive rest), you can get your natural fast (that time between your last meal of the day and your first one) cleaned up and achieve great health benefits. I do not want to miss one amazing, indulgent morsel of food on Nantucket this summer, so I’m just going to really remember to lean into fasting as one of many tools to help me feel my best (no matter how short or long that digestive rest lasts).
3: LIFTING HEAVY WEIGHTS FOUR DAYS A WEEK
I don’t want to spend my summer inside a gym, but I also don’t want to lose my muscle strength. My goal is four really focused heavy strength training days each week…but none of them lasting longer than 45 minutes. I personally don’t need to spend 60 to 90 minutes working out when, if I’m focused, I can get in there and get an effective workout done in less time. I personally feel my best when I lift heavy weights and keep my heart rate up. I have been LOVING the app Fitbod for my strength days.
4: READING MORE
Last year, it took me a bit to get into my summer reading groove, but this summer, I really want to read as much as I can.
5: WATCHING LESS TV
Right now, I can’t really think of anything I want to watch on TV, so I’m not going to seek anything out. If you ladies tell me that there is some “must watch” show, I’ll watch it, but I’m not going to scroll around on my streaming apps just to find something. I’m going to try and read more instead.
6: BEING OUTSIDE AS MUCH AS POSSIBLE
Hi, my name is Shay, and I REALLY like to be outside. I just never come in and think “man, I wish I would have stayed inside”. Nope, never. If you’re looking for me, check outdoors.
7: WEARING SUNSCREEN ON MY FACE & BODY EVERY DAY
I wear sunscreen on my face as my “primer” every single day, but this summer, I want to get better about putting it on my body as well…and NOT just when I’m at the pool or by the beach.
8: INDULGING IN THINGS THAT MATTER
The person I know who needs a heart transplant said the other day that from his hospital, he was watching the rush hour traffic crawl by out his window. He said he would give anything to be stuck in traffic down below…for that to be his biggest grievance at the moment. Life is super, super short, so I’m going to focus this summer on jumping on my bike if my boy asks me to join him, eating that Juice Bar ice cream with my family, walking my dog with Ashby, having that espresso martini with Andrew…I’m going to indulge in the moments with the people who matter the most to me because I am not guaranteed tomorrow.
9: LOOKING AT MY PHONE LESS
I feel like that’s self-explanatory and something I need to lean into this summer.
10: BEING UNSCHEDULED MORE
Awwwww…I have to maintain some sort of a schedule for my work, buuuuut I don’t need to maintain such a rigid one that I leave no room for unexpected blessings. I’m going to really, really try and allow for open space in my day for unknown opportunities to pop up…even if that’s just extra time to sit outside and read.
So, those are 10 things I’m going to really focus on this season. If you have some you would like to share, I know that I would love to read them! I’m always so so encouraged by what you’re doing in your life. When YOU share, I learn/grow/integrate so many things into my life that otherwise I wouldn’t.
Happy Monday, friends! I hope you all take a minute for yourself today. xx
Erika Slaughter says
Love the more relaxed pace of summer!!
Nikki Biggerstaff says
Shay, praying for your friend that needs a heart transplant. My brother in law, age 48, just had one in September. He was at the Cleveland clinic down in Florida. Can’t say enough great things about the miracles they perform there!
Mix and Match Mama says
This is so encouraging!!! Sending your family so much love!
Dana P says
Love these posts! Here are mine:
-Make a pot of iced tea in the morning. I use any (decaffeinated usually) tea and add it to a small amount of boiling water and steep. Then I add the concentrate to a pitcher with ice and cool water.
-I LOVE my summer iced coffee. I add a small amount of Ghirardelli white chocolate powder to my homemade latte and it’s fantastic! Not much sugar either because I don’t use much of the powder.
-I really hope to swing outside more this summer! I love our little bench swing and reading or just sitting on it and talking with my husband and kids.
-take more pictures of the little things. I’ve gotten a little forgetful about this lately, but I love looking back on sweet moments. Even just little things like a drink I made and enjoyed or a calm moment with the kids and my husband. I try to remember to snap a quick photo!
-read more, less phone as well. I’ve been making a list of books I want to check out. And hopefully on that bench swing. 😊
-I love the Bible Project on YouTube. As I’ve been starting a new book of the Bible, I watch their overview and it’s so good! It’s become a little habit I’ve been doing with the kids. I also love going through a Bible study or just copying the Bible with my pretty Flair pens.
If anyone needs inspiration, Kendra at The Lazy Genius has a good podcast about summer plans today! Thanks for initiating this “conversation,” Shay! 💖
Mix and Match Mama says
Thank YOU for sharing!!! xx
Addy Robinson says
love these ideas!!
I like taking a picture of a beautiful flower on a walk and sending it to a loved one who is far away and saying ‘I picked this for you!’
Martina Ingemarsson says
Really enjoyed the post and loved your extra suggestions. I do the iced tea in the morning too, reminds me of when I used to live in the States 🙂
Kara says
What total body sunscreen are you using that isn’t “sticky” or heavy feeling? thanks!
Mix and Match Mama says
I still go with my Coola. I find it light and not sticky plus easy to wash off at night (those “sports” sunscreens are hard to wash off since they’re so “sweat-proof”), plus, I like the way it smells.
Pam English says
What fragrance do you like?
Mix and Match Mama says
They all smell really lovely but the coconut one and Pina colada one (something like that, they have two that are coconut-y) are my faves.
Jess says
If you’re looking for another, my brother just did his rotations with dermatology for Med school and won’t stop talking about Blue Lizard sunscreen. It’s Australian, affordable, and really great (the kids and I have been using it nonstop and no sunburns yet!). 🙂
Emilee says
As a teacher, summer is absolutely a time where I can get the most self care in! The top of my list is more time to sleep, followed by enjoying slow mornings at home. I’d love your sunscreen recommendation!
Heather says
This is a great list!! I am going to check out that weight training app now!
If you haven’t checked out the 1000 hours outside podcast that’s a great one!! As a family we’re trying her 1000 hours outside challenge this year and having that goal has really pushed us to be outside longer (even on the rainy days!)
Mix and Match Mama says
I have never heard of this, but I LOVE THE CONCEPT already!!
Rebecca says
Oh, I love the 1000 hours outside podcast!!! So good;)
Also, Dr Axe is really good, he has best of 2024 sunscreens.
I love listening to both podcasts when I walk my dog in the mornings.
Erika says
I love all of these! What type of sunscreen are you using on your body? I have a hard time with some sunscreen feeling sticky.
Thanks!!
Mix and Match Mama says
I use Coola!
Amanda says
Self Care!!! I truly need to step up my game in this area. One of my friends asked me the other day what I do for me……and as I stared at her and couldn’t think of a thing….I realized I need to invest in ME to. Yesterday I brought my book on the deck and tried to read…..I ended up brushing the dog and watering the flowers. BUT I did sit down and get 25 min in and my youngest brought her book out and joined me. It was super sweet and I need to make more time for slow me time!! Great timing in this post.
Debbie says
Spend as much time as possible with family is my main focus and definitely ‘self-care’ for me! I am blessed with 15 grandbabies, and they’re all growing WAY too fast! I had HS graduation this past weekend for the one closest to me (proximity wise), and just like when my children hit those milestones, it was TOUGH on this Mimi’s heart! 🙂
SS says
Shay,
I love doing the little things. A family a few years back made me feel bad because I had some ice cream… I said I could be hit by a truck, so if I want a little ice cream, I am going to have a little ice cream. My last conversation with my dad we talked about what he had eaten and he told me everything tasted good. So it does make me happy that his last meal was something he enjoyed. He was always an ice cream & popcorn guy.
I know not watching TV… But happened to see Boys in a Boat (I believe) is on Prime…about a rowing team…made me think of Smith!!! Maybe an outdoor movie..cNt remember the rating though.
Mix and Match Mama says
Oh thank you for sharing this. I love this so much, friend! xx
SS says
PS…we watched the Blue Angels… Rainy day here yesterday… It was very interesting…it is kind of a behind the scenes of a year of their training. All kiddos would probably like it. Also on Prime….
Lisa D says
Spending time with the ones i love!
Travel
Walking outside
Beth Knecht says
Just yesterday I was setting my intentions for this summer…
1. Sleep More
2. Read More
3. Be on my phone less
4. Have less outfit options so getting dressed is easier
5. Consider what’s coming out of my mouth – is it optimistic and motivating?
6. Make a family bucket list
7. Eat outside as much as possible
Mix and Match Mama says
Thank you, thank you for sharing!
MelanieL says
Beth, your #5 is awesome!! I will for sure implement this; I’m usually positive and optimistic but I sometimes find myself being negative or complaining and I never feel good about it afterwards. Have a great summer!
Beth Knecht says
When you have a three-year old around it really makes you consider every word!! He repeats everything we say and I’m trying to be so intentional about what he hears in our household. I can’t control the rest of the world but want him to hear uplifting things at home!! 😃
Sheaffer says
HECK YES to getting more sleep! We’ve been staying up kind of late, but last week I slept past 7 every single day and loved it!
Laura says
This is so lovely, Shay. Thanks for the reminder to curate and focus on what really matters.
Meghan says
Will you link your pink apple watch band? Love it!
Mix and Match Mama says
It’s an oldie but goodie from Amazon!
Missy says
Indulging in things that matter….life is super super short and it has recently hit me hard. My fiance passed away unexpectedly a month ago on the 5th, 2 days after celebrating his 49th birthday. We were together for 10 years but only engaged for a short 8 months. It has been a devastating jolt to life. So many plans gone with a phone call. Don’t wait. Do all the things now if you can. Live life and love your people everyday.
Mix and Match Mama says
I am so so so sorry, Missy. I am just so sorry. I’m going to be praying for you and your/his family. I am so sorry.
Missy says
Thank you.
Jill says
Dearest Missy. I’m so very sorry about this and all you are going through. Give yourself lots of grace as your grieve. You are in my prayers.
Missy says
Thank you.
Brenda says
I am so very sorry, Missy. Prayers for you and his loved ones.
Missy says
Thank you.
Lisa D says
Oh Missy! That is so sad. I wish I could give you a big hug. I lost my Dad to cancer 4 months ago. This week the family is cleaning out his house. It’s really hard! I hope you can surround yourself with loving people.
Missy says
Thank you. Prayers for you and your family as you navigate through this time.
Jana Gray says
Shay, Can you please share with me the names of the Etsy shops you use for Disney shirts and Mouse ears. I’ve tried to find the links you gave in the past, but haven’t been able to locate them on your blog. Thanks!
Mix and Match Mama says
I have used so many over the years, but here are a few. I have never had a poor experience with an Etsy shop who sells mickey gear if that makes you feel any better 🙂 .
MeganCraftsDesign
CutestLittleParty
Sigridad
Beth Valenta says
Self Care is so important. Now that I am out of school my top three:
1. Walk more during day and after dinner.
2. Revolve dinners around fresh veggies/salads/fish and enjoy all things summer.
3. Take time to energize with my girlfriends playing cards, walking, LAUGHING.
Mix and Match Mama says
YES!!!!
Monica Beth says
What sunscreen do you use on your face….as I sit here writing this I have an eye full of tears from my sunscreen!
PS – glad you are using a full body sunscreen now! I worry about you and I don’t even know you in real life! Thanks for sharing!
Mix and Match Mama says
Supergoop!!! I’ve used it for years and use it every single day (365!). It’s my favorite! this one: https://shopstyle.it/l/cb6BA
Laura C says
Which Supergoop are you using? There are many to choose from!!
And what Coola do you use?
And I loved all of your Summer Self Care ideas. After losing my husband 3 years ago in a freak accident, your perspective changes. Take time for the small stuff. And do not take 1 minute for granted.
Thanks for always being a ray of sunshine to my day!
Mix and Match Mama says
I almost always use glowscreen but the unseen (I think that’s what it’s called) and matte are both really good too on my face. I have bought, used and loved them all. For Coola, I like the SPF 30 options (they’re both coconut-y). Lisa, thank YOU for sharing. Sending you so much love. I am so so sorry about your loss. xx
sandi says
Goodness, I wish I could sleep well. The house is quiet, the room is dark, everyone is asleep and my eyes are wide open. It takes forever to fall asleep, sometimes not until 2:00 or after, which is frustrating.
I’ve started taking a Pilates class several times a week, I also walk with a neighbor several mornings a week but know I need to incorporate weights. I sit at work but try and walk around and up and down the stairs throughout the day. And water… we all need more water.
Mix and Match Mama says
Thank you for sharing, Sandi!! Water. I need more water. My kids do too!
Natasha says
This summer I want to be a tourist in my own town and appreciate the unique and interesting things which are close to home. I mean, we’ll be travelling out of town a lot too but when I’m home, can I find something new to explore at home? That’s my summer goal.
Mix and Match Mama says
I LOVE THIS!!!!
Paula R. says
Shay, I love that you are focusing on this important topic of caring for ourselves this summer. I’ve been thinking a lot about this need for us to recalibrate our mindset and schedule to make room for the things that
“Fill our cup” and bring us joy and delight.
I just watched a “Madame Chic” YouTube video where she talks about “reclaiming our leisure.”
Jennifer L. Scott quotes Virginia Woolf and says…”If you are losing your leisure-look out-It May be that you are losing your soul.”
I feel like we as women feel guilty to take the time to do something solely for ourselves. It’s like we have to “earn” a break. Our hubbys or kids don’t feel that way… why should we? We were created to be “human beings” not “human doings.”
I’m challenging myself to make the summer special for “me” as well… to do the things that make me feel like “me” and the best version of myself.
Life’s schedules and responsibilities don’t disappear just because the calendar page turns… but I hope to adopt a “summer state of mind” where I can face August a little more rested and rejuvenated. For me… it’s a balance between relaxation AND productivity. I feel so good after tackling my house and needed projects in the summer. That creates the same dopamine release as doing something fun.
Thanks for continuing to lead us down this path of personal wellness.
Mix and Match Mama says
Oh my goodness, I was loved every line of this comment and was nodding my head the entire time I read it. Yes and AMEN to everything you wrote.
sandi says
This resonates deep for me. Thank you for sharing. I feel the need to explain myself when I sit down… no one else in my house does that! WHY? I need to copy and paste this whole comment and email it to myself.
Donna Rackley says
We are one of several houses that border a farm in the city where we live. We have a wire fence along the back instead of the tall wood one. This lets us watch the longhorn cows, goats, geese, ducks, and lama from our dining room or back porch. They are really fun to watch, and relaxing too!
So, I aim to sit either inside or out and watch the animals everyday! Striving for more relaxation.
I also want to read more.
Lastly, I want to start an exercising program at home! I’m 65 and diabetic. I need to get healthier! My 12 yr. old grandson told me recently that he is afraid that I’m not going to be around as he gets older. Out of the mouth of babies! I want as much time with him and our 6 other grandkids as the good Lord will grant me!
Mix and Match Mama says
Oh I wish I could hug you, Donna! Sending you so much love as you take actions towards a new exercise goal. xx
Julie says
Donna, I want to encourage you on starting an exercise routine at home. You can do it! I started from square one almost a year ago and have improved my health gradually. I have done it all from home with very basic equipment, nothing fancy at all. A good exercise mat, a few set of light dumbbells, an IPad. You can find many great beginner workouts on YouTube, even seated ones, standing ones, and ones geared for older ladies. I started here and have worked my way up to harder workouts. Walking is excellent and there are even indoor walking videos if you don’t want or can’t walk outside. Start slow, build up as you go, but above all, be consistent and you will improve your health! Eating healthy is very important also. But you can do it!! Best wishes ❤️😊
Kate says
What is Jason Fung’s podcast?
Mix and Match Mama says
He’s a featured guest on a million. I always search his name in my podcast search bar and then, I can listen to him on so many different podcasts.
Anna says
Thank you so much for sharing this. As a long time reader of your blog I know you are such a go go go, energetic, efficient person that sometimes I would feel a little less- than in comparison (though I absolutely know that was in no way your intention.) Reading now that you also find value in pausing to replenish your mind, body & spirit is very humanizing and endearing and I appreciate it – thank you!
Mix and Match Mama says
Thank YOU for sharing! Trust me, being energetic and go, go, go has a lot of faults. I work really hard to stop and savor the moments when I know so many others naturally just do it (without having to remind themselves). Sending you lots of love! xx
Maile Gershwin says
For anyone who is diabetic or borderline diabetic, I too LOVE Dr. Jason Fung. So helpful for IF. I have all his books and love watching his podcasts. Highly recommend!
~B~ says
Sleep. Oh how I need sleep. My work has me up anywhere from 4:15-4:45 to get in the shower and get ready to leave and though I love what I do…is it worth the toll it is taking on my health? That’s my goal for this summer, to figure out what to do to be able to work on that. Have loved all the comments and sharing of thoughts above. Thanks, Shay!
Tina says
My silly self care goal this summer is to take the time at the end of each day to take my make-up off! I am super bad at this and I know that my skin will be all the better for those 5 extra minutes I take before I go to bed.
Katie Compton says
Shay, when you do weight workouts are you hitting all muscle groups each day? Or do you have leg day, arm day, etc? My summer goal is to start strength training and I like the idea of 3-4 days a week, but keeping it to 45 min sessions. Just not sure how to map it out. Does the FitBod app help with that? Thanks in advance for your help!
Mix and Match Mama says
I prefer to do a little bit of everything each time, but I’ve been concentrating this last two months or so on doing five sets of two different body parts. Today, I did five sets of legs with five sets of triceps. So, a little variety but more concentration on two body parts. The Fit Bod app lets you do whatever you want. It’s FABULOUS!
Addy Robinson says
Have you been wearing your toe spacers?! 🙂 I’ve actually had these for awhile but am newly committed to using them because ‘Peter Attia said…’ I was thinking they’ll probably be in your ‘favorite things’ gift to your girlfriends this Christmas! and LMNT!
https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B004HE94SE/ref=ppx_yo_dt_b_search_asin_title?ie=UTF8&psc=1
Kimberly M says
Slightly off topic but still relevant to this post, THANK you for recommending Outlive by Peter Attia!!! This is by far the best health and wellness book I’ve ever read. Though I have a long way to go, I feel that short of becoming his actual patient this book is the next best thing! He’s obviously someone who cares deeply about others and their health and so are you!!♥️
Mix and Match Mama says
Yay!!!! I’m SO HAPPY you read it!!!
Beverly says
I was doing intermittent fasting but my doctor told me at my 5/20 visit with my endocrinologist that this type of fasting is very bag for women and has caused heart problems. You may want to check with one of your doctors for advice. I love all your self care info.
Mix and Match Mama says
I would of course consult your own doctor about your health, but I absolutely am supported by my doctors. In fact, two of my own doctors do it themselves. I think if your doctor said it’s not for you, that’s something to lean into, but if your doctor just tossed out a big blanket statement, you might want to look into it yourself.
Brea says
What kind of body sunscreen do you use? Also, for the kiddos too?
Mix and Match Mama says
Coola is my FAVORITE!! We all use it, but we also use a variety including SunBum. That’s a good one too!