Summer Solace

Summer isn’t always everyone’s favorite. It can be hot—really hot. The bugs can be relentless. Sweat drips from places you didn’t know could sweat, and don’t even get me started on the sunburns. But for me, summer is a deep exhale. It’s long days, warm evenings, and the freedom to roam with fewer layers and lighter gear.

There’s something about walking into the forest on a summer afternoon that feels like stepping into a cathedral. Sunlight filters through the leaves like stained glass. The forest hums with life—from buzzing dragonflies to birdsong that stretches into twilight.

But, summer comfort outside requires thoughtfulness. It’s about staying cool, hydrated, and protected. Here are three key practices I live by:

1. Sun Awareness
Sun protection is non-negotiable. I wear a wide-brimmed hat, UV-protective clothing, and always have reef-safe sunscreen in my pack. I also plan hikes around the sun’s intensity—early mornings or late evenings are cooler and often quieter. Shade breaks aren’t laziness—they’re wisdom.

2. Hydration Strategy
Dehydration sneaks up fast in the heat. I bring more water than I think I’ll need—at least 3L on a full-day hike. Electrolyte tablets or powdered drink mixes help balance out what’s lost through sweat. I also snack regularly on fruits and salty trail mixes to keep energy up and fluid retention balanced.

3. Bug Management
Mosquitoes and blackflies are part of the summer deal, but they don’t have to ruin your experience. I use a combination of long sleeves, bug netting for my hat, and a natural repellent that doesn’t smell like chemical warfare. A portable fan or citronella coil at camp makes evenings bearable and even enjoyable.

Summer is about feeling alive in your body and in the world. The key is to find your rhythm with the elements—embracing the sweat, the sun, and the symphony of life all around.