Self-Love Rituals for Summer

As I walk along the shoreline and admire the waves lapping against the boats, I lick my lips and taste the all too familiar combination of sweat and salt. A refreshing breeze plays with my skirt, and stray wisps of hair gently blow around my face. The days have now grown long, and the nights even longer. As temperatures soar, A.C.s methodically thump far and wide, and condensation drips from the ice of our many necessary beverages. A mass awakening is happening, and its tangibility runs electric in the air; a spark, a sizzle, the sound of laughter in the streets. The thrill of going to see a live performance and the joys of maskless freedom. After what seems like an eternity, we can finally see each other smile again. Summer 2021 has arrived.

With the season of sunshine comes a new set of rituals to be remembered. It’s a time that forces us to slow down, to be in nature, and to come together and celebrate all that is good in life. By enacting rituals, we honor ourselves and live with greater intent, mindfulness, and gratitude. The summertime has many laudable qualities, and there is so much to be thankful for.

Ritual Oasis’s Self-Love Rituals For Summer

The Ritual of Rest

To prioritize rest at this time of the year is perhaps the best and most self-caring thing you can do. It’s often a misconception that just because the sun is shining and the days are long, we are meant to be out making the most of every second. Rest is vital and serves as a conduit to productivity. There is a reason siesta is a celebrated ritual of many cultures around the world. This summer, seize the early mornings and embrace the evening air, but be assured you are blessed to rest in that midday heat! Or whenever, really, because why not? Just remember that balance is key. (As for me, I’m dreaming of hanging out in this hammock all summer long.)

The Ritual of Hydration

This summer, bring mindfulness to your hydration routine by making it something special. Place a beautiful glass on your nightstand for when you wake up, add cut fruit like cucumbers, lemons, or limes to your water pitcher, and always carry a reusable water bottle around to ensure hydration. If necessary, even indulge in electrolyte pills, which I find help me greatly in the summer months. (Please check with your doctor first!) Sweating is a normal part of the summer experience, and the risk for dehydration is high. Show yourself love, by ensuring your body can operate at its best.

The Ritual of Seasonal Eating

There is little else better for you than nourishing your body and mind with fresh fruits and vegetables. Connect with the summer earth by eating the season's fresh produce (ideally by purchasing it locally)! Summer is the ideal time for basil, berries, cantaloupe, corn, cucumbers, mango, peaches, plums, tomatoes, watermelon, and zucchini. For a complete list of summer vegetation, check out this list put together by The Spruce Eats.

The Ritual of Adventure

Is it really even summer if we're not planning a fun getaway? Adventure is crucial to our personal growth and development and can look different for everyone. It serves as a stimulant and a manner in which to engage your body and mind in ways other than that of your day-to-day life. It's often a time to overcome fears and the unknown, as well as an opportunity to learn new skills, all while getting to know yourself on a deeper level. Whether it's a cross-country road trip, a sunset hike, or a trip to a new town, I highly encourage you to care for your well-being in this way and prioritize the ritual of adventure. For sustainable travel ideas, check out this book by well-known Australian travel writer and environmentalist Nina Karnikowski.

The Ritual of Harmonizing with Nature

Take a moment and imagine the chirping of the birds, the warmth of the sun on your skin, and how good it feels to lay and watch the clouds roll by. Embracing nature is perhaps one of the easiest rituals to perform in the summertime, as one simply just needs to go outdoors. Some of my favorite practices are to take meals outside, to go on sunset walks along the beach, or to stay up late around campfires in pursuit of catching those seemingly elusive shooting stars.

The Ritual of Exercise

As in any season, the ritual of exercise must not be forgotten. What's so wonderful about the summer season is that there are many opportunities to engage in mindful movement while outdoors. Going on sunrise hikes, kayaking, and bicycling are all great summer activities, and then, of course, there is the holy grail, swimming. Whether it be in waterfalls, oceans, lakes, rivers, or streams, being in the water is a ritual within itself. Treat yourself this summer and if possible, make swimming your primary source of exercise. Glamour Magazine just put out this great article about swimming and its many benefits.

The Ritual of Reading

Summer is not summer to me unless I’ve got my mind filled with fantastical tales and my nose deep in a sandy book. For many of us, it’s impossible to find time during our busy lives to sit down and read. But in summer, when the whole world seems to slow down a little, I find it the ideal time to get lost in a book. Here are some reading lists for you to find your perfect summer read.

Finding Yourself: A Reading List by RITUAL OASIS

Summer Reading by The New York Times

The Ritual of Protection

What kind of list of self-love summer rituals would this be without addressing sunscreen? We’ve heard it a thousand times before but how many of us actually put on sunscreen daily? Thankfully, modern skincare and beauty have made some real advancements making this easier than ever. My personal favorite for face is a Probiotic Plant-Based Moisturizing Sunscreen by Kinship Beauty. I’m obsessed and can’t recommend it enough. As for body sunscreen, I’m still on the hunt (and open to suggestions!) but am greatly looking forward to trying out PLAY Body Mousse SPF 50 with Blue Sea Kale from Supergoop! which has excellent reviews. For a quick refresher on Sunscreen 101 check out this guide put together by the Skimm! Our skin is so important and by protecting it we are treating ourselves the ultimate act of self-love.