Missing the Summer Getaway?

How to Find Joy Right Where You Are

When summer rolls around, it’s easy to feel like everyone else is packing up for beach getaways, sipping drinks on a patio in Europe, or posting golden-hour pics from some dreamy cottage escape.

If you’re not taking time off — whether by choice or circumstance — you might catch yourself wondering“Am I missing out?” Summer FOMO (fear of missing out) happens, especially when our feeds are full of curated moments and “must-do” lists.

But the truth is: you don’t need to go far to feel nourished, recharged, or joyful. There’s real pleasure in slowing down, savoring what’s near, and redefining what a “good summer” looks like — for you.

FOMO: Fear of Missing Out

Why We Feel Summer FOMO

FOMO taps into a very human desire: to feel connected, included, and like we’re making the most of our time.

In the summer, that pressure ramps up — with social media, cultural expectations, and even our inner voice whispering, “You should be doing more.”

But here’s the thing: summer doesn’t have to be performative. You don’t have to earn your rest with plane tickets or prove your joy with photos.

You just need a few moments that feel real, grounding, and true to you.

5 Gentle Ways to Enjoy Summer (Without a Getaway)

1. Savor “micro-joys”

Joy doesn’t have to be big or expensive:

• Drinking something cold on the porch

• Watching the sky change colours at sunset

• Listening to your favorite album while cooking

• Picking up fresh berries at the market

Tuning into small pleasures can anchor your day and help your nervous system slow down.

2. Create a screen-free moment each day

It’s hard to enjoy your summer when you’re constantly watching everyone else’s.

Try setting aside 15–30 minutes a day to be completely offline. No scrolling, no checking — just being present with whatever you're doing. It makes a difference.

3. Reclaim routines with a summer twist

Even if you're not off work, small changes can help your days feel lighter:

• Eat lunch outside if you can

• Walk a new route home

• Make your morning coffee an event with music or candles

• Plan one evening a week with no chores — just something enjoyable

  
  

4. Connect with people — even briefly

Sometimes FOMO is less about what others are doing and more about feeling disconnected.

You don’t need a weekend away to enjoy company:

• A walk with a friend

• A phone call while you water the plants

• Sharing a meal, even a simple one, with someone you love

These little moments can be deeply fulfilling.

5. Let go of the “ideal summer” image

You don’t have to check off a summer bucket list. You’re allowed to be tired. You’re allowed to rest. You’re allowed to enjoy slow, unstructured time, and still call it summer well spent.

Joy doesn’t always look like fireworks and road trips. Sometimes, it looks like a refreshing shower and cooling down with a popsicle in your backyard.

Looking to Explore a Bit? Try These Day Trips Near Hamilton 🌿

You don’t have to travel far to enjoy something new. Here are a few easy, refreshing escapes:

• Webster’s Falls or Dundas Peak – Stunning waterfalls and views just a short drive (or hike!) away. Go early to avoid crowds.

• Royal Botanical Gardens – Peaceful trails, gardens, and often art exhibits or seasonal events.

• Cootes Paradise – A beautiful spot for canoeing, walking, or birdwatching close to nature.

• Hamilton Farmers’ Market – Grab fresh fruit, local snacks, and wander downtown.

• Beachfront Trail (Burlington or Confederation Park) – Pack a picnic or rent a bike for a breezy afternoon.

• Crawford Lake Conservation Area – Explore Indigenous heritage sites, boardwalk trails, and tranquil lakes.

Even a half-day trip can feel like a mini-retreat for your body and mind.

A Summer That Feels Good — Not Just Looks Good

Whether you’re working, resting, or simply doing your best to get through, you’re not doing summer “wrong.”

Presence, not performance, is what makes this season meaningful.

Here’s to slowing down, soaking in small joys, and remembering that you don’t have to escape your life to enjoy it. 💛

If you’re feeling overwhelmed, anxious, or like the pressure to "make the most of summer" is weighing on you, you don’t have to navigate it all on your own. Sometimes the most powerful shift starts with a conversation.

✨ We're currently accepting new clients for psychotherapy and FST. If you’re ready to reconnect with yourself and create more space for calm, we’re here to help.

You can reach out to us through the website message, email (truehealththerapy@gmail.com), DM on Instagram (@truehealth_therapy), or call us at 647-625-9867.