What does summer mean to me?

Welcome to our latest update on our joint collaboration with Forensic Response UK. this season we have been delivering workshops and asking our participants what does summer mean to me?

As a summer baby, born on July 9th, I feel a great connection to this season. While many set their New Year resolutions in January, I prefer to embrace the spirit of summer as a time for personal reflection and goal setting. I’m more likely to keep to things at this time of year as it’s “my time”

what’s your time and can you relate to this shift on perspective around goal setting, celebration and reflection?

This season allows me to pause, assess, and recalibrate my life’s path.

The onset of summer invites a sense of adventure and possibility. It’s a time when the world awakens, and the natural beauty surrounding us shines.

I asked participant Jackie what summer means to her?

“Summer to me means a mixture of things …more outdoorsy time, quicker washing drying time, skylarks, sunbathing animals (I’ve seen squirrels draped along a fence and birds, on the ground, with wings outstretched, gorgeous to see!), beach days; flipflops and salads, people seem happier, ice cream vans picnics, beer gardens, floaty dresses, pretty flowers and wasps…”

The sunshine does seem to fuel a desire to explore, and I find joy in the simple pleasures of life—picnics, mindful photography walks, even sun cream tasting sandwiches!

In our mindfulness sessions, we have focused on the theme of contrast. As the weather warms up, we’re encouraged to slow down and notice the world around us. In our groups this summer, we are exploring how contrasts in nature reflect our internal moods. By observing the vibrant flowers and shades in forests, we learn to appreciate the balance of life. It’s about finding harmony amid chaos, and summer offers a perfect backdrop to practice this.

One of the highlights of this summer has been our incredible meetup at Newburgh Priory in Coxwold, North Yorkshire. This gathering allowed us to connect with individuals from various corners of North Yorkshire. Witnessing people come together, united by mindful photography, was heartwarming. The beauty of the venue echoed our intentions, creating a space where everyone could share their thoughts and feelings about mindfulness and the essence of summer. It was a treat to see participants across many of our projects engaging in meaningful conversations, bridging the gap between projects and funding restrictions. Our forensic response grant allows us to bring everyone together.

Understanding that not everyone has access to mindfulness resources, we are committed to nurturing inclusivity. Through a grant from Forensic Response UK, we are thrilled to offer four free mindfulness workshops each year. These workshops aim to support individuals who may not typically have the capacity to engage in such practices. We believe that everyone deserves the chance to take control of their mental well-being, especially during a season that encourages growth and reflection.

In conclusion, summer is much more than just a season for me; it’s an opportunity to get moving, for self-discovery, connection, and community engagement. As I celebrate my birthday today, I am reminded of the power of reflection and the importance of nurturing relationships. This summer, I encourage everyone to take a moment to appreciate the beauty around us and engage in conversations that build connection and understanding.

Let’s embrace the magic of summer together!

If your community would benefit from a mindfulness session please get in contact via our website. We prioritise working with communities who are facing barriers to engagement.