Summer Rhythms of Rest
Ah, here in Colorado, the kids are finished with school, the pools have opened, and even though it’s not officially summer, in my mind, summer has begun. It is my absolute favorite season! Whenever this glorious time of year arrives, I think about how I will create space for rest and renewal. Here are a few of my favorite ways:
Spending Time in Nature
For me, I’ll enjoy some days away with my husband at the beach. Nothing replenishes my soul like walking along the shore. However, in addition to that vacation, I also like to implement restorative practices. This time of year, it’s wonderful to spend more time outside—taking evening hikes with my husband, sitting on the back deck enjoying coffee and a good book, or walking by a stream. Being in nature and observing the beauty all around me definitely restores my soul.
Meditating on a Specific Portion of Scripture
Another practice I often engage in during the summer is taking a specific passage of Scripture and dwelling in it for a month or two. One summer, I spent the entire season in John 15. It became so rich for me, and I felt Christ’s nearness as He reminded me to abide in Him.
This summer, I’ll be dwelling in Isaiah 40–61. I love those chapters, and I can’t wait to see what God speaks to me through His Word. Focusing my attention on a specific portion of Scripture allows me to dive in more fully. I can soak in God’s Word and luxuriate in His presence.
Embracing Silence
Now, to be clear, I will have family times and gatherings with dear friends filled with laughter and noise—but during the summer, I love to sit silently for a few minutes each morning as the sun rises and listen to the sounds of nature. I love the sound of the birds singing early in the morning or the wind gently rustling the trees. In the silence, I imagine that Jesus is sitting right beside me, and we are enjoying the quiet of each new morning together. In the stillness, I can sense His presence more fully. (Psalm 46:10)
Slowing My Morning Routine
Whenever summer rolls around, I view it as an invitation to slow my morning routine. No matter what the season, I begin each day with praise—but in the summer, I linger there longer. I let go of the need to hurry to the next thing. I’m not sure why that’s easier for me in the summer months; I just know it to be true. Similarly, I relax and enjoy longer times in God’s Word. This might be possible for you as well. Maybe when the kids are home from school, they sleep in a bit longer. Rather than racing to accomplish more, view it as an invitation to slow down and relax with Jesus.
Escaping for Extended Times of Prayer
To be honest, I try to make this a regular practice in my life. However, during the summer months, it feels a bit easier. If you have school-age kids, it might actually be easier during the school year—but even while your kids are home, I recommend taking a prayer walk. Get outside, take a long walk, and pour out your heart to the Lord. If you live in an extremely hot and humid climate, you might take your walk in the evening or early morning. The main goal is to step away from the normal pressures of life and go somewhere you can pray for an extended time.
I live in Colorado, where you can escape into the mountains for refreshment. Maybe you live near the beach. The point is to feel like you’re getting away with Jesus from the pressures of life.
Friend, view summer as a season of rest and renewal. I hope these tips have been helpful. Too much of our lives is spent rushing and racing. Ask the Lord to show you how to slow down and refresh this summer. Renewal only comes with rest.
The Book Club has begun, but it’s not too late to jump in!
Go to Facebook and join the group.
Listen to The Connected Mom Podcast each week—each of our summer episodes is only about 10 minutes!—and read a chapter in Cultivating Deeper Connections in a Lonely World.
Hey Grandparents!
Tonight (June 2), I’ll be doing a webinar for the Legacy Coalition on The Power of Connected Grandparents. You can register and listen in for FREE.
Here’s the link: https://legacycoalition.com/registered-gmn/