5 Ways to Have Your Best Summer Ever

When do you feel like your best self? For me, I feel my best when I eat well and stay active. Preparing for my wedding, I felt more focused on being my best self than ever before. I didn’t allow myself to succumb to the bridal hunger games, but I became more intentional about how I was taking care of my health both for me and for the sake of my future spouse.

With summer just around the corner, it’s time to abandon any winter hibernation habits and embrace the active, carefree lifestyle of the warm weather months (especially for those of us that deal with snow for half of the year!)

Our bodies are a temple of the Holy Spirit, after all, and it’s up to us to keep ourselves moving and fit to do God’s work.

But it’s not just our physical selves that need a refresh. It’s our spiritual lives that can always use a stint in boot camp. With the change of seasons, we each have the opportunity to take stock of where we land on the scale—are we lukewarm in our faith, letting each day pass us by, or are we actively pursuing each day as an opportunity to fulfill God’s will for our lives?

Here are five ways you can increase your physical and spiritual fitness this summer:

Run for a cause

One of the best ways to motivate yourself to exercise is to align your hard work with a cause meaningful to you. Are you a cancer survivor? Do you have a love for animals or have a local charity that’s close to your heart? Chances are, there’s a fun run or walk planned for this summer that will give you the opportunity to raise money and focus on a worthwhile cause while training for the event.

Tune in to a podcast

As you embark on a long walk or bike ride, set your smart device to a Catholic radio station like Relevant Radio or tune into a popular podcast like “The Catholic Guy” with Lino Rulli. You’ll have the dedicated time to listen to God’s word and recharge spiritually while working your muscles.

Set goals for your faith life

Just like setting fitness goals, it’s important to set spiritual goals, too. During the summer months, commit to attending daily Mass if your schedule allows or opt to reflect and pray in the Eucharistic adoration chapel every week. As you spend more time in prayer and reading God’s word, you will strengthen your soul and commitment to God’s will for you.

Eat and cook local

Some of God’s greatest gifts come directly from the soil in our local communities. You can honor the hard work of farmers and nature around us by purchasing local foods through farmer’s markets and CSAs. Cooking a meal together is a great date option, too! If you’re not comfortable in the kitchen, research restaurants and cafes in your area that serve up farm-to-table entrees.

Try something new

As a Catholic single, you may be wondering how you can meet new people within your community, as well as online. Take a chance this summer and sign up for an outdoor boot camp class, a martial arts program or a rock climbing night out. If you need a boost of confidence, ask a friend to join you, otherwise come prepared to let go of your fears and introduce yourself to a new group of people.

Join me in kicking off this new season by readying our bodies and souls. When we transform our hearts, we open ourselves exponentially to God’s blessings and grace.