All the days of the summer break seemed to have rolled into one, and now you’re back at work faster than you can say “frosé.” While the holiday season may have been over before you know it, the weather is still balmy and the cicadas are still chirping! Here are our top tips on making the most of summer while it’s still here.
Words Grace Stephens
Get out to see the sunset
Make the most of daylight savings, sun-kissed evenings and our beautiful backdrops and head to a vantage spot to watch the sunset. This is a great way to head outdoors and relax after work with friends or your significant other. Grab a blanket, some fish and chips or even a transportable BBQ and enjoy mother nature.
… Or get up for the sunrise
Rising in the early hours is almost like entering a secret and special world. While early starts might be hard, seeing a gorgeous summer sunrise and heading out for a walk early doors is a fantastic way to wake up and start the day. You’ll get to the office invigorated with a clear head. There’s so much that can be achieved in the early hours of the day! For more on rising in the early hours and some inspiring sunrise rituals, click here.
Make icecream
Nothing says summer more than icecream in the sunshine. There’s plenty of sunshine left to be had, so try your turn at making your own sorbet, with our fruity recipes here.
Take a staycation
While we all wish we could go away on holiday again, it might be time to start compromising. This is where the idea of a ‘staycation’ comes in. Make a list of all the things you’ve wanted to see or do in your local community that you didn’t get around to doing on your break. Think about taking a walk before or after work on a different beach nearby, or arrange with friends to head out to an authentic restaurant for dinner, which will transport you to another country’s culture and atmosphere. This will give you new experiences without having to go far. Alternatively, pitch a tent in your backyard or set up camp under the stars for the night complete with fairy lights and connect with the outdoors from the comfort of your home!
Pick another summer novel to read
Summer is often associated with downtime and reading a few books (the hammock or the beach making the perfect location to do so). If you work close to a beach or park, bring your book in and head out during your lunch break or straight after work for some reading escapism.
Go on a day adventure
Make the most of your precious Saturday and Sundays by challenging yourself to explore a new area or try a new activity every weekend. Go on a day trek, visit a waterfall, discover a hidden beach or hire some stand up paddle boards and have some fun.
Go to a festival or a gig
What says summer more than a festival? At this time of year, there are festivals and summer events taking place most weekends. Our top picks for upcoming festivals this summer include Splore, Marlborough Wine and Food Festival, WOMAD, Laneway, NZ Festival, Coastella, and Homegrown. See the current issue of Good for more inspiration and festival fashion!
Head off on a roady
January and February are not only our favourite months weather wise – but also because they provide us with some pretty sweet long weekends. Take the chance to escape for a few more days and spend a long weekend camping or road tripping. Or, just pack the car and head to new beach you haven’t been to for the day. Drive safe!
Keep your DIY spirit alive
Transform an unused outside area into a tropical alfresco haven, give your garden a spruce up or make some gorgeous terrariums to add to your indoor spaces. Whichever endeavour you decide to pursue, your hard work will be rewarded by the results. See the January/February 2018 issue of Good for this pallet daybed outdoor project spaces project and click here for more home inspiration.
Host a garden party
Throw up some fairy lights, set the outdoor table and put on a summer playlist. Spend the night with friends drinking sangria and enjoying each other’s company. Don’t forget the citronella candles! An awesome addition to any outdoor space is a pizza oven – click here for our how-to video for making your own!
Bring summer to your workplace
If you can’t be outside enjoying summer, bring summer to you. Adorn your workspace with flowers and tropical plants, burn a beachy candle, and enjoy summery food at lunchtime. Try not to get into the habit of eating at your desk too early in the year either – make sure you’re getting your vitamin D fix on your designated breaks. Crank up the summer tunes in the office and enjoy!
