Re-Energizing for a Perfect Summer

No matter where you go, a perfect #summer should allow time for a little R&R. Take a whole day (or two) to do absolutely nothing alone or with family, suggests Swift Wellness. Go outside and take a hike. Lay in a hammock or deck chair and read a book. Revisit an old hobby or take the time to learn something new. Turn off your phone and social media feeds for a day. #Clean and #declutter the entire house — and #donate the #stuff that’s getting in the way of a calm and #clutter-free mind. “Taking a break can feel like you’re not doing enough and missing out. However, this is far from the truth. Time off is time to re-energize.” #PerfectSummer

Avoid the Risks of the Summer Sun

A perfect #summer shouldn’t have any mishaps, but the hottest and most active season of the year isn’t without its risks. Check the UV index and slather on the sunscreen before you go out in the sun, says MedStar Health. Light-colored, lightweight clothing can offer additional protection from the damaging rays, as will a wide-brimmed hat and sunglasses. Drink plenty of water and other fluids and keep a first aid kit at the ready. Be alert to signs of heat exhaustion such as muscle cramps, dizziness and nausea; be vigilant about water safety when visiting the pool or beach; and never, ever leave children and pets unattended in a vehicle. #PerfectSummer

Plan a Perfect Summer Vacation

What would a perfect #summer be without a #vacation? Start by blocking out a time period on your calendar, and make reservations early. Set a realistic budget and watch for online airfare and hotel deals, or check to see if your camping equipment is in usable shape. If you wish to make your trip less stressful and more #sustainable, pick a location with good public transportation or tourist amenities. Finally, right-size your luggage and pack accordingly: “You want enough room to bring back souvenirs and any shopping you might do without traveling with too many bags,” Travelpro says. “Everything you pack at the start of your trip should have a purpose.” #PerfectSummer

Organize Your Wardrobe for a Perfect Summer

With the days getting warmer, it’s time to get your perfect summer wardrobe in order. Even if you have already #sorted and #stored your cold-weather clothing, says Lifetime Organizing, you’ll want to create a “capsule” wardrobe that suits you and your lifestyle. Look at the events and activities you have coming up, and sort out the garments that will work for them. Then, reorganize your closet to put those items front-and-center, limiting yourself to a specific number of mix-and-match essentials. Store the fall and winter clothing, and #donate any garments that no longer fit into the rotation to ClothingDonations.org. #PerfectSummer

Use Labor Day Weekend to Organize

Bittersweet as it may be, #summer is drawing to a close. While The Organizing Blog encourages you to do little that qualifies as “work” on Labor Day weekend, one thing that can enhance your overall mood and prepare you for #fall is #decluttering. Start #organizing and putting away those summer supplies, says Simplify Experts, tossing anything that’s too worn to justify keeping for another year. That includes grilling tools, camping supplies, pool toys, gardening equipment and even old bottles of sunblock. If there’s anything that you didn’t use but might still be of use to someone else, you can donate it to ClothingDonations.org. #LaborDay