Capture the Fun of Summer (Even When You’re Adulting)
- Lisa Wright Burbach
- 15 hours ago
- 2 min read
Remember that feeling? Long summer days stretched out ahead of you. No responsibilities. Just play, friends, sticky popsicles, and maybe a lightning bug or two.
Now we’re grown-ups with meetings, deadlines, and laundry. But that doesn’t mean we have to miss out on the magic of summer.
In fact, play and joy are essential parts of wellness, even in adulthood.
Why Summer Fun Still Matters
Fun isn’t frivolous. It’s fuel. When we make space for joy, we reduce stress, boost creativity, improve relationships, and enhance our overall well-being.
Play is linked to longevity (hello, Blue Zones!), mental clarity, and even emotional resilience. And guess what? It can still look like lightning bugs and sidewalk chalk—if you let it.
How to Have a Summer Vacation Mindset (Without a Plane Ticket)
You don’t have to go anywhere to feel like you’re on vacation. It’s a mindset. Try adding small, joy-filled moments into your week:
Get Outside and Play
Toss a frisbee or shoot hoops at the park
Go on a walk—barefoot in the grass if you can
Catch lightning bugs with the kids (or by yourself!)
Plan a picnic, even if it’s in your own backyard
Try something nostalgic: hopscotch, hula hoop, or riding a bike
Say Yes to Social (sans media)
Meet a friend for iced coffee and a walk
Go to a local concert or food truck night
Host a backyard game night or s’mores party
Invite someone to play mini-golf or paddle boats
Embrace Rest + Indoor Fun (It’s still “summer fun”)
When it’s too hot:
Craft (yes, adults can craft too - obviously, says the crafter )
Read a fun summer novel
Watch a movie with watermelon and popcorn
Do a puzzle or a DIY project
Play a board game or card game just for fun
Final Thoughts: Reclaiming Joy is Wellness
We don’t outgrow the need for fun—we just forget to make time for it.
This summer, give yourself permission to play. Say yes to things that make you laugh, explore, relax, and connect. Be a little silly. Be a little free. Capture the fun of summer—because life’s too short to only do grown-up things.
What’s one playful thing you’re doing this summer to spark joy? Let me know in the comments or come share in my wellness community on Facebook.
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