This is Your Summer.

• Diversify your exercise regime

A handful of individuals follow the same exercise routine for months on end. Personally, I was heavily reliant on weights and strength training as my primary form of workout for over 2 years. Eventually, I found myself not enjoying the gym after a while. No wonder so many people get into an exercise rut, burn out, and eventually lose interest in exercising. To prevent this, switch up your gym routine by incorporating new sports activities. I gave cycling classes a try and as someone who used to loathe cardio, I am now a proud member of my local cycling class. As I explored the gentle, yet strengthening benefits of Pilates exercises, I enjoyed toning and being more connected to my body. Instead of your usual warmup on the Stairmaster, dull dumbbell lifting, and strenuous bench pressing, experiment with group exercise classes such as pilates, cycling, and yoga. Try hiking or kayaking with friends. The best thing you can do for yourself is to expand your knowledge and experience in physical activities.

• Focus more on using natural products for skin and hair care

The shiny labels of the new collagen-boosted serums or hyaluronic acid creams used to tempt me more than ever. Especially with influencers promoting these products left and right, I felt like my basic skincare methods were never up to par. As someone who got caught up in trend frenzies, I have come to learn that nothing beats the basics. Homemade facemasks and hair masks have done more wonders for me than any new facewash or lotion ever has done.

The go-to natural products that I incorporate in almost every facemask or hair mask are the following: turmeric, full-fat yogurt, avocado, banana, olive oil, and honey. Other natural items than can boost glowing skin and shiny hair are aloe vera, eggs, and mayonnaise. Applying some combination of these products to my hair has revived dead, frizzy hair and into glistening locks. My skin has become more clear than ever, to the point where I no longer require concealer to hide blemishes, as they are no longer there!

This natural glow that your face will give is unmatched by any amount of makeup or skincare products!

• Adopt a new vibe/aesthetic

In the past two years in college, I have gone through many phases in terms of clothing, style, makeup, and more. From streetwear to 90’s fashion, I have explored it all. Each aesthetic brought out new versions of me that I never knew existed. For instance, streetwear, baggy shirts, chained pants, and layered outfits brought out an upfront, bold version of me that always got her way. Lots of partying and hanging out with friends were critical in this era. In my 90’s phase, my flare jeans, curly hair, and “mom outfits” made me more inclined to have a more gentle approach to life. I enjoyed my alone time, went on long walks around my neighborhood, and took care of my room a lot more. This version of me was heavily focused on getting her life together and following her passions.

I encourage you to reflect aesthetics or vibes that you enjoy, in whatever form that manifests in. It can be a room renovation, work environment shift, or a different daily makeup routine. Having a new “outfit” to try on seasonally keeps you on your feet and an open-minded perspective.

• Rediscover your city

Being a tourist in your own city never gets old, especially when you get so sucked into the mundane routine of work. Whether it be revisiting a local beach you used to play at as a child, trying new restaurants, or driving around the outskirts of your city, there are always opportunities to find new gems your city has to offer. In fact, it can be as simple as having a new perspective. Rediscovering your city doesn’t necessarily require finding new locations. For the first time, enjoy a picnic with your friends at a local park. Create some new memories at your favorite viewpoint. The choice is yours.

What are you doing this summer to make it one for the books? Let me know in the comments below!