7 Simple Summer Self-Care Tips You Can Do at Home
At Spindrift Massage and Bodywork Therapy in the Outer Banks, we believe self-care isn’t something you save for when you’re burnt out—it’s something you build into your life in small, consistent ways.
And in the summer? That self-care often needs to shift with the season.
Hot days, sun exposure, overstimulation, and a fast-paced summer schedule can leave the body feeling drained and dehydrated. That’s why we’re sharing 7 easy, nourishing ways to care for yourself this season—without fancy tools, hours of free time, or any stress.
Whether you’re on vacation or living full-time in the OBX, these grounding summer tips can help you reconnect and recharge.
1. Hydrate from the Inside Out
Summer hydration isn’t just about how much water you drink—it’s also about what you eat. Water-rich fruits like watermelon, cucumber, and berries are refreshing and packed with vitamins that support healthy skin and natural detoxification. Keep a bowl ready to grab in the fridge for a cool, nourishing snack.
2. Cool Aloe Compress
After a day at the beach or in the sun, apply a chilled aloe vera compress to your face, neck, or shoulders. It’s one of the easiest ways to calm skin inflammation and replenish moisture naturally. You can keep a small jar of pure aloe in the fridge just for this.
3. Evening Wind-Down Routine
Don’t underestimate the power of a slow evening. Create a 10-minute bedtime routine that helps you shift gears—dim the lights, stretch gently, or sit quietly with music or breathwork. This simple pause signals your body it’s safe to rest.
4. Summer Foot Soak
Our feet carry us everywhere in summer—sand, sidewalks, flip flops, and barefoot walks. A warm foot soak with Epsom salts and peppermint oil can ease swelling and tension while refreshing your mind and body. Bonus: it helps you sleep better.
5. DIY Face Mist
For a quick midday cool-down, combine rose water and witch hazel in a spray bottle. Store it in the fridge and spritz your face throughout the day to stay refreshed. It’s especially helpful when the summer heat starts to feel overwhelming.
6. Daily Breathwork Break
Even just a few minutes of focused breathing can shift your nervous system out of stress mode. Try this: inhale through your nose for 4 counts, hold for 4, and exhale slowly for 6. It’s a small habit with big impact—and you can do it anywhere.
7. Digital Detox Hour
Pick one hour a day to unplug. No phone, no social media—just space. Read, journal, stretch, nap, or simply be. This pause helps reset your brain and reconnects you with what actually recharges you.
Bonus Tip: Book a Mid-Summer Massage
While home practices are powerful, there’s something extra healing about intentional bodywork. If you're in need of deeper restoration, consider scheduling a session for massage OBX at Spindrift. We offer seasonal packages, trauma-informed care, and special add-ons to support your summer wellness routine.
Want to enhance your next massage with a hydrating, glow-boosting facial add-on? Be sure to check out our July spotlight: the Collagen + Red Light Facial Boost for just $15.
Let Self-Care Fit Into Real Life
Self-care isn’t always luxurious or expensive. It’s about tuning in and choosing what nourishes you today. These seven tips are simple enough to try even on a busy week—and they work beautifully alongside our holistic offerings for massage Outer Banks locals and visitors alike.
