Summer therapy, why it’s the best time.
The summer season is often a time of relaxation with brighter days, fewer responsibilities for many, and opportunities for a fresh start. What better way to start anew than to begin your therapy journey? The decision to start therapy can be a scary one. While the best time to start therapy is always the time that you feel ready, here is why summer might be an ideal season to take that bold and bright step into the next season of your life.
Sunlight is good for the body and mind
The summer sun is one of the many highlights of the season. With longer days and extended daylight hours, it is common to feel more motivated to achieve your goals. This happens because sunlight increases serotonin production. Serotonin is a chemical in the brain that plays a role in mood regulation, with increased levels contributing to improved mood. But that’s not the only thing we gain from UV rays. Sunlight is also a source of vitamin D, which supports bone health and stronger muscles. In order to take care of your mental health, it is important to look after your physical health too. Embracing the summer sun (and therapy) might just be what you need to improve your overall wellbeing this season onward.
Developing the strategies to tackle Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD)
We now know that the summer sunshine is one of the reasons starting therapy when it’s brighter outside might feel more encouraging. But what about the seasons that are not as bright and warm? More gloomy seasons like winter often contribute to Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD), a seasonal type of depression. Deciding to start therapy before these more difficult seasons arrive can help you address concerns surrounding SAD and build the skills you need to feel more positive in every season.
More time to take care of yourself
Summer is often a time of rest as many individuals are out of school or adjusting to different work routines. With increased flexibility and availability, there is more time to give therapy a try and discover which type of therapy is best for you. With less on your plate, you can bring a clearer mind to therapy with more energy to engage in therapeutic activities. If you’ve been holding off on starting therapy during the busier seasons, summer might just be the perfect time to get therapy off your to-do list and incorporated into the regular rhythms of your life.
Enjoying the mental health benefits of nature
Getting out and enjoying the summer weather can be hard to resist. The season brings unique opportunities for outdoor exploration of both nature and the self. There are many benefits of integrating nature into therapeutic work. Nature has a way of calming the mind, providing clarity and peace for self-reflection and healing. Therapy can help increase your self-awareness to develop goals for growth in this season.
You are not alone in your summer struggles
While there is much to look forward to in the summer, there can also be much to worry about during this time. Summer is often a season of transition into new beginnings in the fall. It can also be a time of uncertainty and change. Whatever you’re experiencing this summer, Winrose Oasis Counselling is here to support you. Perhaps you’ve given all of this some thought and feel ready to introduce a new, good kind of change into your summer routine. There’s no better time than now to begin your therapy journey and become the best version of yourself. Let this be the season you say yes to your growth, healing, and relief. Contact Winrose Oasis Counselling Services today to get started!