Stress is ubiquitous in the healthcare profession. Although this profession is fulfilling and rewarding, it’s also challenging and stressful. According to a 2023 study, healthcare workers experience significantly high stress and burnout rates, reaching 70%, which can negatively impact patient care.
While summer typically signals fun, with its warm weather and longer days conducive to many enjoyable activities, it’s not always inherently relaxing. This is especially true for professionals with children, who would need to balance work with household tasks and keep their kids entertained by planning enjoyable summer activities. In a Harmon Research survey, 58% of respondents shared that the financial strain associated with summer activities adds to their stress.
We’ve listed some summertime activities that are fun and relaxing, perfect for nurses who are looking to embrace a more chill yet enjoyable summer season.
Stress relief for nurses: Chill summer activities
Attend an outdoor music event
Listening to music has always been linked to elevated mood, especially for those living with anxiety and depression. Music has been known to bolster the brain’s production of dopamine, which helps relieve feelings of anxiety and depression. According to a study that involved 950 critically ill patients, 30 minutes of music therapy per day was found to have helped lower anxiety and stress rates.
Attending a live music event with others can improve mental health by providing social connection alongside the benefits of listening to music. Going to outdoor concerts is also linked to reduced anger and frustration levels, enhanced learning and productivity, and lower stress levels.
Take your bike out
Taking your bicycle out for a spin around the neighborhood, a nice park, or even as your transportation of choice to and from work is good for mental health. In one 2019 study that involved 100 participants aged 50 to 83, researchers found that those who rode their bicycles for at least 30 minutes three times a week experienced enhanced cognitive function and well-being.
Of course, riding a bicycle regularly is a good form of exercise, which releases endorphins that boost your mood. Research also shows that cycling lowers cortisol levels, the body’s stress hormone, and improves energy levels and stamina. Aside from these, regular bicycling can also help you enjoy fresh air and sunshine more often.
Read a book outside
Reading can bolster mental stimulation and improve creativity and imagination, and doing so outdoors can promote calmness and relieve anxiety. Being under the sun, even just for about 10 minutes, can help lower your stress levels.
When you read outdoors, you also get a break from your phone and laptop, allowing you to disconnect from technology and stay in the moment.
Don’t forget to put on your sunscreen before you do some outdoor reading!
Go on adventures with your pet
Our adorable pets not only give us immeasurable joy and unlimited cuddles, but they also provide stress relief and companionship.
Having pets has been found to reduce work-related stress and anxiety. A VeryWell Mind survey found that 47% of Americans who are currently in therapy say that spending time with their pets is their preferred self-care activity. The respondents believe that spending time with their pets improves their mental health levels.
Pets are also a great reason to stay active. Take advantage of the warmer temperatures to take your pets outside to play in nearby parks, beaches, and other dog-friendly establishments. On your days off, you can even go on a road trip and go hiking, exploring fun trails, or go camping.
Summer offers a wonderful opportunity for nurses to prioritize their mental well-being and embrace the season’s warmth and relaxation. We hope that with our suggestions, you’ll be able to take the time to slow down, embrace relaxing activities, and nurture your mental health so that you can take care of yourself and others with compassion and energy.
