The Soul Satisfaction of Summer with Simplicity

Include this simple staple into summer — slow down.

Have you ever thought in July that summer seems like a long time, only to arrive in September and wonder; where did the time go?

This summer, take a look at what could be pared down (besides shedding those extra layers of clothes).

How to plan a simple summer:

•  Try a “back to basics” theme for this summer.

•  Set priorities on where you are going and who you are spending time with.

•  Be selective. Remember that you don’t have to do everything this summer.

•  Try an activity you can do each week with consistency.

•  Include semi-structure with plans to look forward to.

•  Welcome spontaneity and flexibility, try a different path.

If you are looking for fun and inexpensive things to do in the summer while focusing on the simple pleasures of the season, try some of the super summer activities listed below.

First, begin again with a deep breath to be present with each experience and create beautiful memories. Just like practicing yoga poses that have been done previously, each and every pose and experience is unique in the moment.

Ten ideas for simple summer activities:

1. Have a picnic.

2. Try a new food.

3. Make s’mores.

4. Stay up late for stargazing.

5. Make your own backyard oasis for a quick “staycation”.

6. Watch the sunrise and the sunset.

7. Read a new book from the library.

8. Go for a scenic drive.

9. Take a hike or walk through a park.

10. Visit an outdoor farmer’s market.

Make summer plans that are simple, doable, and meaningful. You don’t have to spend a lot of money to have fun.

A simple schedule with a “back to basics” theme is the first step to having fun without expensive activities. When you plan a simple and slow summer you have the space to say yes and no if you so choose.

Try exploring areas where you live that you have not been to before, or re-explore!

Have you ever noticed that many people actually travel to where you currently live to see all the sites? Create your own “staycation” and rediscover where you are with a fresh breath and mindset.

This summer I decided to really make time for myself on Saturdays after teaching yoga to go SUP (stand up paddle board) at the lake nearby.

I love to SUP in the summer, yet it somehow kept getting pushed to the back burner. Moving forward this summer with a fresh breath and fresh mindset, I decided to make the consistent habit of going to SUP at Lake Como after teaching my Saturday morning Power Flow Yoga class at The Canyons Athletic Club in Hamilton, Montana.

Lake Como is a 30-minute drive from Hamilton (I’m not jetting to Italy for the afternoon).😊 The price of the journey is time, gas, and $5 to pay for parking. I have my own inflatable paddle board, so it’s easy for me to transport. I paddle around the lake for a few hours breathing deeply, absorbing sunshine and views of the mountains, with occasional dips into the cold water. The experience and peace of mind are priceless. It’s self-care for me.

In previous summers I did a lot of “next time” excuses for myself and then poof, the summer was gone, and so was the Lake (almost).

Lake Como in Montana is actually a reservoir. By the end of August, a lot of Lake Como water has been used to irrigate the Bitterroot Valley. Although still beautiful, it is a longer walk over the rocky “beach” carrying my paddle board to the water.

This is your gentle reminder to take action, and do the things you love. The present moment is all we truly have.

Do you ever feel like you don’t have time for yoga and movement?

A short yoga practice is a great way to reset and balance the day. Align Your Flow has 10-minute yoga classes to build consistency into your day with an accessible yoga practice on demand, anytime.

With just 10-minutes a day, you can feel better in your body and mind.

I offer weekly 10-minute pre-recorded yoga classes in Align Your Flow with fresh themes and journal prompt/reflection each week to help you stay consistent with your yoga practice and take time for yourself.

What are you ready to flow into your life with a deep breath? You can let me know below in the comments.

Sending you love and light!

Cheers,

Marla