Now that summer is here, it is time to relax, unwind, and take a little extra time for yourself. That is when self-care comes in. Here are some tips for practicing self-care in the summertime.

1. Take Good Care of Your Skin

Skincare is a wonderful way to practice self-care, especially during the summer. It is this time of year when your skin tends to take a beating thanks to the hotter temperatures and more time spent outdoors.

In addition to using sunscreen every day and before you go outside, try switching up your skincare routine. Use products that add extra moisture to your skin if you will be in hot temperatures for a long time, and go gentle with your skincare products.

2. Choose Your Outdoor Activities Wisely

You should definitely get outside and enjoy some vitamin D and sunshine, but choose these activities wisely. For self-care, you want to think about your health as much as your enjoyment, so try to avoid intense outdoor workouts and avoid outdoor activities in triple-digit heat.

3. Have a Summer Bucket List

Get started now with your summer bucket list! It’s okay if you missed a few weeks or even are in the last month of the season. It’s never too late to start crossing items off your list.

The bucket list can simply be a list of things you want to do this summer. Anything from home improvement projects around the house and to-do list items to places you want to go or crafts you want to complete.

4. Pick Up a New Hobby

Yes, fun activities and hobbies can definitely be considered self-care! Take some time for yourself and learn a new hobby, take a creative class, or enjoy activities you already know relax and calm you. Try to participate in these activities a little more than just mindlessly watching Netflix.

5. Try a New Morning Routine

Take a second look at your morning routine and see if you can change it up a little for your own self-care. Maybe you want to get up a few minutes earlier than normal to read a few chapters of your book or enjoy the outside warmth as the sun comes up. Anything that can change it just a little will be really helpful.

6 Plan Time for Social Events

Self-care also means spending time with other people when time permits. You might have a little more time in the summer and more opportunities to enjoy time out with friends or family. Plan a brunch with friends, take your family on a hiking trip, or go to the lake with a big group.