Getting outside to engage in the natural world as often as possible is important too, says Dr. Goldstein, who recommends doing yoga, taking walks outside or finding a tai chi class, though anything that gets your body moving will do. “Even going outside and noticing the sounds around you and being aware of what you’re listening to can be a great way to reflect and bring this sense of mindfulness into your daily life,” he says.
One way to put this into practice, suggests Alden Wicker, editor in chief of the sustainability website EcoCult.com, is to adopt a basic philosophy: “Avoid air conditioning,” Wicker says. “When you leave in the morning, try riding your bike instead of taking the bus, and avail yourself of every sidewalk café and park so you can soak up some vitamin D. I guarantee you'll reach the end of summer with more of an appreciation for the longer days.”