With summer halfway through, it's easy to fall into a rut. Here are some ideas of what to do if you want to get moving.
1. Get out of bed!
We all know how hard it is to move after you've settled in for the long haul with snacks and Netflix. You've got eight new shows on your list to watch next, and you don't really see the point in leaving your room unless it's a meal time. As comfy and eternal as your setup seems, pretty soon it can get to be boring and you find yourself wishing that you had something to do. Well the first step of getting out of your rut is to get up, get out, and get some fresh air!
2. Go swimming!
Now that you've gotten yourself up, why not go for a swim? There's good reason why swimming is a classic summer pastime -- it's fun, it's refreshing, and it doesn't break the bank! Whether you prefer beaches, lakes, rivers, or pools, swimming is a great escape from the summer heat. Even if swimming isn't your forte, going along with friends and soaking up the sun is a great way to get moving and hang out. Pack a frisbee, a volleyball, or maybe just a good book and head down to the shore.
3. Go berry picking!
Warm weather means that fruit is in season! Get a jump on the freshest fruit by picking it yourself. This activity comes with a major perk -- munching on fresh berries as you go means you don't need to pack a snack! Healthy, fun, and rewarding. Eat them fresh, make some jam or use them to bake with!
4. Get active!
Sunny days mean endless things to do outside. Get your heart rate up by biking, hiking, kayaking, running -- the options are endless if you want to get active. Just be sure to hydrate (even if you're on the water!) and be safe. Adventure awaits!
5. Visit a farmers market!
Now is the time that all of the local farmers markets open up. Spend a morning swapping produce you usually buy at the supermarket for locally grown options. You'll really taste the difference. If you find something you've never heard of, don't be afraid to give it a try! Supporting local farmers is important, and you won't regret a thing once you taste what you've bought!
6. Discover a new restaurant!
If you're anything like my friends and me, you have a list of about four restaurants that you cycle through every time you want to eat out. While they're all great places to eat, take advantage of the other places around! Look around online for places with good reviews and make a date of it, or be spontaneous and see what you find while exploring a new town. Either way, you could end up finding a great place to add to your list of regulars!
7. Read a new book!
As tempting as it is to spend your summer reading the "Harry Potter" series for the 11th time (I know, I do it every summer), it might be time to pick up something new. Read that book you've been hearing about for months, or the one you've been dying to read and never got around to. Don't have a clue what to read next? Ask a friend for a list of their favorite books, or stop by a library and browse the shelves.
8. Get crafty!
You have the time now to start those DIY crafts you've been saving off Pinterest for months. Instead of letting them be forgotten, try one out! Tie dye a shirt for July 4th, make yourself a bullet journal. If crafting isn't your thing, try out a new recipe! Explore your creative side and see what happens.
9. Get a job!
While this option isn't quite as exciting as the others, it's a great use of the large block of time you have off. Whether you opt for paid or unpaid, internship or job, the summer is a great time to build up your resume and gain experience in the professional world. Plus, it gives you something to combat your boredom and you could score some pocket cash.
10. Watch Netflix with friends!
For those of you still unconvinced that getting out of bed is worth it, here's an option that still shakes up your experience. Decide on a show, and invite your friends over for a marathon. You don't have to expend a lot of energy, and you get to enjoy guilt-free binge watching. You could take the classy route and provide wine and a cheese spread, and ask everyone to dress nicely, or you could opt for comfort and ask everyone to come in jammies and bring snacks. Either way, sharing the shows you love with your friends adds a new dimension to your experience without the hassle of leaving home. Whatever you choose, enjoy your summer!
