Summer Family Fun & Nurturing Mental Health Together!
August 20, 2024
Did you know August is recognized as Family Fun Month? As we reach the end of summer, it’s the perfect chance to prioritize mental health and well-being by having a little extra fun before school begins!
At Foundations Health & Wholeness, we believe in the power of connection, joy, and community to foster healing and growth. Let’s explore how engaging in fun activities as a family unit can enhance mental health and create lasting memories.
The Power of Family Fun & Play
Wisconsin summers are made for play! When families engage in play and quality time together, it strengthens connection, improves communication, and creates a sense of unity and belonging. Bonding can make a big difference in your family’s mental wellness. Here are some ideas for mindfully enjoying what’s left of the summer season together:
- Embrace the Outdoors: Whether it’s a day at the lake, a hike in the woods, a simple picnic in the park, or camping in the backyard, outdoor activities provide a natural boost to our mental health. Fresh air, sunshine, and healthy physical movement all contribute to a happier, healthier mind! Take advantage of the beautiful nature that surrounds us.
- Creative Fun at Home: While outdoor activities are wonderful, there are plenty of ways to enjoy some summer fun at home, too. Creative projects can be particularly beneficial for mental wellness, providing a sense of accomplishment and a healthy outlet for emotional expression. Creative expression also helps reduce stress, anger, and anxiety. Consider painting, gardening, coloring with chalk outside, having a dance or karaoke party, or cooking a special meal together!
- Read Together: Start a family book club! Reading can strengthen your mind, your ability to empathize, and help with stress reduction. Choose a book to read together and create space (maybe a blanket fort with some yummy summer snacks!) to discuss your current read.
- Mindful Moments: Amid the excitement of summer activities, it’s also important to carve out time for relaxation and mindfulness as a family. Practicing mindfulness as a family can help everyone stay grounded and reduce stress! Yoga, gratitude journaling, or taking mindful walks as a family are all great practices to incorporate into your summer routine.
Building Stronger Connections
Summer fun doesn’t need to be extravagant or expensive! At the heart of it, what’s most important is building stronger family connections by spending quality time together. Take this time to have open conversations, listen to each other’s thoughts, laugh together, and support one another. A supportive family environment for your loved ones helps cultivate positive mental health and overall well-being.
At Foundations Health & Wholeness, we understand the importance of family and a good support system in the journey towards mental health and wholeness. Our mental health therapy, treatment foster care, and RAYS program (which also offers a Family Navigation program) are all designed to support individuals of all ages and caregivers in building healthier, happier lives.
To learn more about our compassionate programming here at Foundations, please visit our website at www.wearefoundations.org.
As you soak up the remainder of summer with your loved ones, embrace the joy of togetherness, create beautiful memories, and nurture your family’s mental health and wellness. Together, we can build a caring and connected community that embraces the health and wholeness of all people.
Reviewed by Joanne Klysen, LPC
Sources:
https://www.verywellmind.com/how-creativity-positively-impacts-your-health-5113162
https://namica.org/blog/why-reading-is-good-for-mental-health/
