Rest, reflect and recharge

Sort out your life from your deckchair

- By Rebecca Frank

Wherever you're spending the summer, take time for some self-exploration and to set out your hopes for the season ahead, writes Rebecca Frank

Summer offers most of us a much-needed chance to slow down, rest, and recharge our batteries. Whether you're going on a two-week beach holiday or spending a long weekend chilling out at home, the relaxed pace of these warmest weeks provides a good time to pause and reflect on how the year is going, and what you'd like from the months ahead.

When we slow down and wind down, our nervous system switches from a state of high alert to rest and regeneration mode. In this state, we think more creatively, and the thoughts and ideas that might have been swirling around in our minds for months often start to form into clearer solutions and plans. 'Rest and relaxation provide deep nourishment and fertile space for creativity, resourcefulness, problem solving and decision-making power,' explains chartered psychologist Suzy Reading.

So, while it might be tempting to shove any problems or decisions to the back of your mind until after the summer, taking a little time to do some light self-exploration while you're relaxing can be surprisingly easy and fruitful. You could ponder some big questions, consider some reflective prompts, or just let your mind wander while you stare at the clouds. 'You might find it helpful to talk with friends or family, journal your thoughts and ideas, or just have a long daydream about them,' says coach Annie Ridout. *Crucially, this time is about reflecting without pressure.'