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Summer is a season of sunshine, vacations, and relaxation—or at least, that’s the ideal. But in the age of social media, it’s also a time when our feeds are flooded with picture-perfect beach photos, exotic travel destinations, and an endless stream of summer activities. This constant barrage of idealized images can lead to feelings of inadequacy, FOMO, and maybe even a little burnout. So, how can you enjoy the season without letting the summer scroll drive you crazy?
Check Your Head
The first step to surviving the summer scroll is recognizing the impact it can have on your mental health. It’s not hard to fall into the ol’ trap of comparing your life to the carefully curated snapshots you see online. You have to remember, social media is a highlight reel, not real life. The endless stream of vacation pics and poolside selfies rarely shows the less glamorous side of things—travel stress, crowded beaches, or less-than-perfect weather.
Set Boundaries
Setting boundaries is not just a strategy, it’s a powerful tool for maintaining your sanity during the summer months. With longer days and more social events, the temptation to spend more time scrolling through your feeds is real. However, this can quickly lead to digital burnout. By setting specific times of the day for checking social media, you’re taking back control. Stick to those limits and watch how you can stay connected without feeling overwhelmed.
Curate Your Feed
Curating your feed intentionally is not just a coping mechanism, it’s a joyous act of self-care. Take a moment to review who and what you’re following. Are the accounts you see daily inspiring and uplifting, or do they make you feel stressed and inadequate? It might be time for a digital detox if it’s the latter. Unfollow or mute accounts that don’t bring you joy, and instead, fill your feed with content that reflects your values, interests, and aspirations. Following accounts that promote body positivity, mental health awareness, or simply sharing beautiful nature photos can make a big difference in how you feel online. It’s like creating your own digital paradise.
Touch Grass
While it’s a lot of fun to get your feed right where you want it, try balancing out your screen time with offline activities that nourish your mind and body. Summer is the perfect time to get outside, soak up vitamin D, and enjoy the world beyond the screen. Whether it’s hiking up a nearby trail, swimming in a local pool, or just walking through the park, getting yourself to nature can reduce stress and improve your overall mental well-being. Plus, engaging in physical activities can help you stay grounded and present, making it easier to resist the pull of your phone.
Be Mindful
Mindful scrolling is another technique that can help you easily navigate the summer scroll. Instead of mindlessly scrolling through your feed, take a moment to engage with the content you’re seeing. Like, comment, or share posts that genuinely resonate with you, and skip over the ones that don’t. This practice not only helps you stay connected more meaningfully but also prevents the sense of overwhelm that comes from endless scrolling. It’s about being intentional with your interactions and not letting the platform dictate your emotions.
Take a Break
If the summer scroll becomes too much, don’t be afraid to log off for a few days or weeks. Cutting technology for a little while can do amazing things for your mental health, giving you the space to reconnect with yourself and the world around you. You might be surprised at how refreshing it feels to unplug and fully immerse yourself in the present moment.