Unlock Your Creative Flow: 15 Summer Wellbeing Tips for Writers

Happy Summer, Stage 32!

I have some exciting news to share! "Take a Shot at Happiness: How to Write, Direct & Produce the Life You Want" has been recognized as the winner of the National Indie Excellence Awards in two categories: Wellbeing Winner and Personal Growth Finalist. The National Indie Excellence Awards honor presses that go the extra mile to produce books of excellence in every aspect. That now makes four awards my book has won, and I share all of them with those who have been supportive throughout my writer’s journey. They each made a significant contribution that I am forever grateful for.

Switching gears off me and to YOU, I want to talk about the coming weeks and the change of season! My suggestion is to use this time to elevate your wellbeing. Here are fifteen ways for you to enjoy a healthier, happier, and more creative summer.

“The best way to pay for a lovely moment is to enjoy it.”— Richard Bach, author of Jonathan Livingston Seagull

1- Embrace The Outdoors

Summer is the perfect time to reconnect with nature. Whether it is taking a break from your screenplay to hike, bike, or simply walk in a local park, spending time outdoors can boost your mood and reduce stress. Exposure to natural light also helps regulate your sleep-wake cycles, enhancing overall wellbeing.

2- Stay Hydrated

With rising temperatures, it is crucial to stay hydrated. Drink plenty of water and enjoy hydrating foods like watermelon, cucumbers, and strawberries. Proper hydration is essential for maintaining energy levels and cognitive function, keeping you feeling your best on and off set.

3- Practice Mindfulness

Take advantage of the longer days to practice mindfulness. This can include meditation, yoga, or simply taking a few moments each day to breathe deeply and appreciate your surroundings. Mindfulness reduces anxiety and promotes a sense of calm, contributing to better mental health -- perfect for maintaining focus and creativity.

4- Enjoy Seasonal Foods

Summer offers a bounty of fresh, local produce. Incorporate fruits and vegetables like berries, peaches, tomatoes, and leafy greens into your meals to nourish your body with vitamins and antioxidants. Eating seasonally can enhance your diet an keep you energized for those long writing sessions.

5- Get Moving

Physical activity is a key component of wellbeing. Whether it is swimming, jogging, or joining a local sports league, find activities that you enjoy and make them part of your routine. Regular exercise boosts endorphins, improves mood, and enhances physical health, helping you stay sharp and inspired.

6- Connect With Others

Social connections are vital for emotional health. Plan picnics, barbecues, or outdoor movie nights with friends and family to strengthen your relationships and create lasting memories. Engaging with others can reduce feelings of loneliness (which we can often feel as writers) and increase happiness, fueling your creative process.

7- Plan a Digital Detox

Take a break from screens and digital devices. Spend time reading a book, journaling, or exploring a new hobby that does not involve technology. A digital detox can improve sleep quality, reduce stress, and increase mindfulness, providing a fresh perspective on your projects.

8- Prioritize Sleep

With longer daylight hours, it can be easy to be light on sleep. Ensure you maintain a consistent sleep schedule to support your overall health and wellbeing. The average adult needs seven to nine hours of sleep a night. Quality sleep is crucial for cognitive function, emotional regulation, and physical health, which are essential for peak creative performance.

9- Volunteer

Giving back to the community can provide a sense of purpose and fulfillment. Look for local volunteer opportunities, such as helping at a community garden or participating in a beach cleanup. Volunteering boosts happiness and fosters a sense of community connection. An added benefit is that these experiences can inspire new stories and ideas.

10- Learn Something New

Summer is a great time to pick up a new skill or hobby. Consider taking a cooking class, learning a new language, or trying your hand at painting or photography. Learning new things can keep your mind sharp and increase your self-confidence, broadening your creative horizons.

11- Travel & Explore

If possible, take a trip to a new destination. Traveling can provide a fresh perspective, broaden your horizons, and enhance your sense of adventure and curiosity. Exploring new places often sparks new ideas for scripts and projects.

12- Practice Gratitude

Start a gratitude journal to reflect on the positive aspects of your life. Writing down what you are thankful for can boost your mood and overall happiness. Practicing gratitude can lead to greater emotional resilience and life satisfaction, which can be reflected in your writing.

13- Garden & Grow

Start a small garden, even if it is just a few potted plants on your balcony or windowsill. Gardening can be therapeutic and offers the added benefit of fresh herbs or vegetables for your meals. Connecting with nature through gardening promotes relaxation and wellbeing, giving you a peaceful retreat from your work.

14- Explore Local Culture

Take time to visit local museums, galleries, or cultural festivals. Exploring local art and history can be enriching and provide a sense of connection to your community. Engaging with culture stimulates the mind and fosters a sense of belonging, often inspiring new creative projects.

15- Engage In Water Activities

Take advantage of the warm weather by engaging in water activities such as kayaking, paddleboarding, or simply swimming. These activities are not only fun but also great for staying fit and cooling off during hot days. Water activities provide physical exercise and are refreshing for both body and mind, helping you stay balanced and creative.

Making any of these activities part of your daily routine can help you make the most out of your summer while supporting your mental, physical, and emotional health, and keep your creativity flowing.

Enjoy the sunshine! Be inspired! Make your moments count!

Stage 32 Webinar with Maria On Demand Seven Steps of Mindfulness for Creatives.

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