Your Summer Self-Care Reset

Denise Austin
by Denise Austin | 
 | 
Lifestyle

Summer is here and finally in full swing! I absolutely love everything about this season!!! The sunshine, vacations, outdoor fun, beach days, and the chance to spend more time with family and friends. But let’s be honest… as energizing as summer can be, it also has a way of wearing us out!

With busy travel days, packed calendars, long hours in the sun, and the constant go-go-go of summer activities, it’s easy to feel drained. That’s why self-care isn’t just a luxury during the summer months, it’s a necessity! If we don’t take time to reset both physically and mentally, we can quickly burn out before the season is even over.

Taking care of yourself doesn’t mean hitting pause on all the fun. It means giving your body and mind the support they need to feel strong, balanced, and refreshed - so you can enjoy everything summer has to offer. Think of it as your seasonal reset, a chance to rejuvenate and realign with what makes you feel good from the inside out. 

Use my favorite self-care rituals below as a jumping off point, and for even more ideas like this, join my Denise Austin Membership  where I have hundreds of quick and easy workouts to jumpstart your day, lifestyle advice to help you feel your best, and delicious recipes you can make all summer long, The best part? Annual Memberships are 50% off until 06/30/25! Join today!

My Favorite Summer Self-Care Rituals

Here are a few of my favorite ways to reset and practice self-care during the warmer months:

1. Cooling Pool Days. One of my favorite ways to unwind is a gentle pool workout or just floating in the water. Swimming is refreshing, low-impact on the joints, and can be a great stress reliever. Plus, it’s a wonderful way to beat the heat and sneak in some movement!

2. Hydration and Nourishment. The heat and sun can dehydrate us quickly, so drinking plenty of water is a must! I love infusing my water with fresh lemon, cucumber, or mint. And nothing beats a cool, homemade lemonade on a hot day. Eating light, protein-rich meals (my membership has dozens of refreshing ideas, including Cilantro-Lime Shrimp Salad, Fruity Chicken Lettuce Wraps and more!) with seasonal fruits and veggies helps me feel my best and keeps my energy up all day long.

3. Spa and Hair Care Days. The sun, saltwater, and chlorine can be hard on our hair and skin. That’s why I set aside time for some simple self-care treatments! A deep conditioning hair mask, a hydrating facial, or even a DIY sugar scrub to refresh and exfoliate. It’s amazing what a little pampering can do for your mood and confidence!

4. Mindful Moments. Even five minutes of quiet time can be powerful. Whether it’s journaling in the morning, taking a short walk without your phone, or simply sitting outside and soaking in the sunshine, these little breaks help center your mind and bring a sense of calm to your day.

5. Saying No (and Meaning It!). One of the most underrated forms of self-care? Boundaries. It’s okay to say no to that extra event, that long weekend trip, or that invitation if it doesn’t feel right for your schedule or energy levels. Listen to your body, and give yourself permission to rest.

Your Reset Starts Now!

Are you feeling energized or overwhelmed? Balanced or burnt out? Your body will tell you what it needs, your job is to listen. It’s how we stay strong, joyful, and present for all the good stuff life brings our way. (Good stuff, like Denise Austin Annual Memberships being on SALE through the end of this month!!!) Take those moments to breathe, stretch, hydrate, and do something just for you. You deserve it!!

If you’ve enjoyed reading this self-care inspired article, you’ll love my NEW Summer 2025 Fit Over 50: Strong Body Strong Mind issue on newsstands and available TOMORROW!

Let’s live FIT, HAPPY and HEALTHY - together!!

Denise