August is National Wellness Month. Practicing self-care this month, and always, is one of the best ways that we can keep ourselves mentally, emotionally, physically, socially and spiritually healthy. Daily calories do not provide the energy necessary to make us feel truly fulfilled; instead, activities focused on positivity, motivation and purpose are important ingredients in the recipe that is our overall satisfaction and happiness.

Consider these fun, inventive ways to put wellness first and prioritize self-care this month.

  1. Take a walk as a nature photographer. Upgrade your nature hike by bringing along your digital or Polaroid camera and taking time to capture the beautiful moments around you.
  2. Cook a new, nutritious recipe. You could seek out a healthier alternative to a childhood favorite meal or simply try adding something completely new to your rotation.
  3. Go seasonal fruit picking. Melons, berries, peaches and apricots are all at their peak season this month; find a nearby orchard and bring home some sweet, flavorful produce.
  4. Invite a friend to a picnic in the park. Pack a basket of nutrient-filled snacks and take your meal outside on a sunny afternoon. You could put together a playlist to be the soundtrack for your outing, or just spend time catching up with a valued friend.
  5. Embark on an outdoor scavenger hunt. Visit a nearby scenic area and bring along a kid-friendly nature scavenger hunt list, or head to the beach and see how many different seashells you can collect.
  6. Create a scrapbook. Focus on the things, places and people that bring you joy and purpose by crafting a scrapbook of some of your happiest memories.
  7. Take your activity on wheels. Ditch the normal walk around the neighborhood for a bike ride or roller skates and bring a bit of fun to your exercise routine.
  8. Look up. Getting up early to watch the sunrise or staying up late to stargaze are great opportunities to mindfully ground yourself in the present moment.

In the wellness world, self-care has shifted from a helpful addition to a critical part of any healthy lifestyle. Don’t be afraid to put yourself first: it’s one of the most powerful tools at our disposal when it comes to living as our happiest, healthiest selves.

Sources:

“50 Best Self-Care Ideas for Mental and Physical Wellbeing,”