Summer Isn’t Over Yet: Giving Ourselves Permission to Refresh

For me, summer has always represented two things: relaxation and refresh.

There is something about the longer days, warmer evenings, and time outdoors that invites us to take a step back from the usual rhythm of life. Summer can give us permission to breathe a little deeper, spend more time with the people we love, and reconnect with ourselves.

My mother is from Spain, and a cultural difference that I have always cherished is how some workplaces have a summer schedule or “horario de verano”, particularly during August, when working hours are reduced. Vacation is also deeply valued, and taking time away is often seen as an important part of enjoying the season- not simply as something we squeeze in when everything else is finished.

I find myself thinking about that idea as summer begins to wind down. The meteorological calendar considers summer to be June- August, which means that by that measure, summer has already come to an end. But the astronomical calendar believes that summer continues until the autumnal equinox, which occurs around September 22 or 23.

I’m choosing the astronomical calendar this year because I am recognizing that I need a few extra weeks to slow down, recharge, and intentionally transition into the next season. There can be an abruptness to seasonal transitions, and we're expected to jump right back into routines, responsibilities, school schedules, work demands, and packed calendars. But our nervous systems don't necessarily work on a calendar.

If you'd like to follow the astronomical calendar with me, consider September 22/23 your personal deadline for summer self-care. Before fall officially arrives, ask yourself:what would I like to prioritize in the upcoming weeks? Whatever it is, I hope you make a little space for it.