I have been enjoying my summer and taking note of how I am aiming to make it as enjoyable as possible. Here is a list of the most important components of a successful summer and a successful beginning of the semester — one that is as safe, happy and joyful as possible.
- Staying hydrated throughout the day
During the hot summer days, not only is drinking water essential, but it can also be delicious and refreshing. Finding a water bottle that keeps your water cold for long stretches of time will ensure you are always properly hydrated — allowing you to have more summer fun. I have personally found great success with both Hydro Flask and S’well water bottles. My favorite part of these options is the endless color and pattern combinations that make a water bottle a statement of personal expression.
2. Sunscreen, sunscreen, sunscreen!
As someone with very fair skin, I know the dangerous implications of failing to generously apply sunscreen during the summer months. Nevertheless, I have not always enjoyed doing so — when I was younger, I felt sunscreen was cold, sticky and messy. Now, however, I have found that the variety of sunscreen options available have made me more inclined to use it. Many of my favorite Tik Tok influencers — like @thejarr by Eli Rallo — make videos with Supergoop! sunscreen, which has prompted me to think of sunscreen as something more than an obstacle to heading outside to enjoy some summer fun in the sun. For example, using products with SPF as moisturizers or primers allows sun protection to become a part of your daily skincare routine instead of something exclusively done when preparing to spend extended amounts of time outside.
3. Relaxing outside with the comfort of your favorite beach towel
Nothing screams summertime like a big, fluffy beach towel. Whether you are headed to the beach, lake, pool or simply want to sit outside, a towel is a necessity. While I think there is no better way to cool off during the summer than going for a swim, I also believe that sitting outside in the sun is an amazing way to lift my spirits and enjoy the summer. Laying out a towel on your deck or in your yard to get some sun is a great way to take a break from screens and recharge your soul.
4. Listening to your favorite music while enjoying a peaceful summer sunset
Everyone loves listening to music, so why not always bring around a way to listen to music with your friends? Bringing a speaker to the beach is the perfect way to share your love for music with others, discover new songs to listen to and elevate your summer day. Listening to music while sitting on the beach with friends and an ice cold beverage is an ideal way to soak up the summer before it is time to head back to the grind of the school year. As a loyal Harry Styles fan, I know I will be listening to “Harry’s House” all summer long.
5. Jumping into an alternative world with your latest read
Summer is the perfect time to do extra reading for fun. The best part is you can read while laying by the pool or use reading time to stay inside on a rainy day. If you need inspiration for what to read next, there are so many TikToks available with the perfect summer reading lists for you. In fact, there is a whole side of TikTok referred to as “BookTok”— and the movement is catching on. I have even seen whole tables at my local Barnes & Noble arranged with the latest books discussed on “BookTok.” Personally, I am looking forward to devouring “Conversations With Friends” by Sally Rooney and “Malibu Rising” by Taylor Jenkins Reid— both of which I discovered via BookTok.
6. Make a pact with your friends to binge-watch the same show or docuseries
There is no better way to escape the oppressive summer heat than finding a new show to binge-watch. Even better — you can discuss all the details in depth with your friends. Thankfully, there are so many great shows out right now that will allow you to escape into a new place. Currently, “The Summer I Turned Pretty” on Amazon Prime Video is a very popular series to watch, and it is a series that I flew through in a matter of days—I had previously read the book series by Jenny Han and loved it, so I have been anxiously awaiting the release of the TV series. Once you finish the seven 45 minute episodes, check out the book series by Jenny Han to see how the rest of the plot line between Belly, Jeremiah and Conrad plays out before season 2 is released.
7. Your favorite fresh fruit
Picture this — you have just returned from a long day in the sun, and you are tired and desperately in need of a snack. You immediately turn to indulge in a piece of cold and juicy watermelon — my personal favorite fruit during the summer. Regardless of your fruit of choice, fruit feels all the more refreshing and delicious under the August heat. You can even take your fruit experience to the next level by purchasing your favorite produce at a local farmers’ market, such as the Charlottesville City Market—open on Saturdays from 8:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m.
8. Lightweight and cool clothing
There is nothing worse than feeling too hot during the summer, especially in a humid area like Charlottesville. If you cannot spend all day beachside or poolside in a bathing suit, wearing lightweight and cool clothing is a must. A trend that is particularly popular this summer is the “Coastal Grandmother” aesthetic. Anyone can participate in this trend, which emphasizes wearing items made of loose linen material, your favorite sun hat and a canvas tote bag. I think this fun trend is not only cute, but it is also a super comfortable wear to dress during the summer. Show off your “Coastal Grandmother” outfits at the beginning of this coming semester and impress your friends with your fashion-forward clothes.
9. Prepare for summer travel or dream of future travels
If you have summer travel scheduled, taking time to prepare for your trip is a must. If you do not have any trips planned, fret not. Using the summer to gain inspiration for future trips and adventures is equally as valuable. One way to be sure you are ready for all future travels or study abroad opportunities is to ensure your passport is up to date. Taking the time now to take care of this task will free up time for your future self and make certain that your upcoming trips are as easy and stress free as possible.
10. An upbeat attitude
Summer is a time of sunshine, hope, relaxation and fun. Nevertheless, I recognize that summer and a new semester can be a difficult time of change — especially for college students. I encourage you to approach the outdoors with an open mind and optimistic attitude, regardless of what your plans may be. I hope you find moments of joy and peace and enjoy the sunshine, which I know I will miss when the cold winter months inevitably roll back around.
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