A Summer Guide to the Seasonally Minded

For those who truly embrace the rhythm of the seasons, Summer is more than just a time of warmth and long days.  It's an opportunity to slow down, savour the simplicity of nature, and cultivate moments that feel both restful and rewarding.  Whether you're looking to embrace the season in your home, garden or with friends, this guide is here to help you make the most of Summer, both seasonally and mindfully.

Embrace the Beauty of Seasonal Eating

Summer is a time of abundance in gardens, farmers markets, in back yards and allotments.  From juicy berries to fresh pods filled with peas, this is thee season to truly be thankful for fresh, seasonal ingredients.

• Grow Your Own: If you have the space, try growing simple summer herbs like basil, mint and thyme.  Even a small herb garden on your window sill can bring fresh flavours to your kitchen.
• Farmer's Markets: Shop locally and pick up whatever is in season.  It's the perfect time to cook with fresh courgettes, eat strawberries, and so much more.
• Easy Recipes: Think light salads, grilled vegetables and fresh fruit desserts.  The goal is to make the most of what nature offers right now, and without fuss.

A Seasonal Approach to Home Decor

In the Summer, it does the mind great service to mirror indoors the warmth and light outside.  Creating a summer home environment is all about simplicity and lightness.  Here's how:

• Natural Materials: Swap heavy, dark textiles for lighter options.  Lighter tablecloths, cotton throws and wicker baskets breathe freshness into your home.
• Florals & Greenery; Fresh flowers don't need to be extravagant.  A vase of cut twigs with green foliage on them, or a simple bouquet of daisies or garden flowers in a glass jar can bring a rustic charm.
• Scent: Keep your home smelling fresh with seasonal scents like lavender, lemon balm or eucalyptus.  Simple reed diffusers or soy candles can work wonders.

Gather and Connect with Loved Ones

Summer is perfect for reconnecting with family and friends.  Whether it's a casual BBQ in the garden, or a picnic in the park, creating space for these moments is good for the soul.

• Summer Gatherings: Even if it's overcast, use the outdoors to your advantage.  A table placed under a tree, light snacks, candlelight and chilled drinks create an atmosphere of ease and connection.
• Create Meaningful Traditions: Whether it's hosting a summer solstice celebration of simply having your weekly Sunday dinner outdoors, start traditions that make your summers feel special.
• Unplug: Summer is a great time to reconnect with those around you, and sometimes that means putting away the screens and focusing on quality time together.

Mindfulness and Slow Living in Summer

The beauty of summer is that it encourages a slower pace.  It's a time for mindfulness, for noticing the small things and slowing down.

• Morning Walks: Start your day with a quiet walk, whether it's through your garden, the park or down a country lane.  Take time to observe the changes in nature, the smells of morning dew and the sounds around you.
• Barefoot Days: Summer is an opportunity time to spend time outdoors.  Whether it's walking barefoot on grass, or sitting under the trees with a good book, embrace the season's invitation to slow down and enjoy the simple things.

Sustainable Summer Living

Summer is also a great opportunity to reflect on how we can live more sustainably.  from reducing waste to using what's available, there are simple steps we can take to tread lightly on the earth.

• DIY Projects: From up-cycled home decor to handmade gifts, summer is perfect for projects that are kind to the planet.  Consider crafting what you already have, it's a way to be creative while reducing waste.  And the long days ahead of us gives the perfect head start to getting in on some of those Christmas crafting projects ahead of the stress of that busy season.
• Mindful Consumption: Be mindful of what you're purchasing.  Choose local or sustainable products and support eco-friendly businesses that align with your values.
• Seasonal Cleaning: Tackle any decluttering projects using natural cleaning supplies, and donating items that no longer bring you joy.

The Joy of Simple Summer Moments

At it's heart, a seasonally-minded summer is about making room for joy and gratitude in the every day.  Whether it's watching the sunset with a loved one, enjoying the quiet of an evening in the garden, or simply reading a good book under a tree, these moments are what make summer special.

• Find Joy in the Everyday: Take time to appreciate simple pleasures.  A well-made iced tea, a picnic blanket spread under the trees or a sunset walk - these are moments that remind us that life is rich and full, even in it's simplest form.

A seasonally minded summer is about embracing all the little things that make the season special.  The fresh food, the family connections, the moments of stillness and the joy of simplicity.  It's about slowing down, appreciating the earth's abundance and making space for connection, whether it's with loved ones or with the land around you.  This summer, take a step back, breathe and let the season guide you into it's warmth and richness.