Embrace Summer

I hope this blog finds you enjoying all that summer has to offer. While therapy remains a cornerstone of mental health, it’s equally important to get into a routine that supports our well-being. Summer, despite its heat, can be a fantastic ally in this effort.

One of the simplest yet most profound benefits of summer is natural sunlight. We can challenge ourselves a bit to get up early or stay out later to soak up those rays. Living in this area, we have the added advantage of numerous walking and biking trails that allow us to exercise and move without the hassle of a gym membership.

From a social standpoint, summer is prime time for backyard fun, festivals, and farmers markets. Whether it's the French Market in Geneva, the Batavia Farmers’ Market, or the Geneva Arts Fair, these events offer great opportunities for socialization and relaxation. If you're like me, getting out and about might require a bit of a push. However, the benefits of exercise and social interaction are well worth it.

Too often, I hear people complain about the heat, but with some planning, it can be managed. Summer is the perfect time to maximize our mental health before the darker, colder months set in, limiting our options. So, if you love biking, then bike! If walking is your thing, then walk! If you enjoy wandering around Third Street in Geneva, then do it! The goal is to get out of the house and enjoy what summer has to offer. Who knows? After a day spent in the sun, you might even find that you sleep better at night.

Enjoy this summer to the fullest. No matter how you look at it, summer can be a win for your mental health.

Warm regards,

Dr. Michael Pica
Vice President, Pica & Associates