Keeping a Healthy Lifestyle Over Summer Break

So many of my clients tell me they struggle the most during summer.

Just when you finally get into a good routine, school ends and everything shifts. Maybe you’re home with kids all day now, or maybe you’re juggling work, camps, travel, and a totally different schedule. Either way, your normal rhythm disappears fast.

Later nights. More events. More food. Less structure.

And before you know it, summer turns into fall, fall turns into the holidays, and suddenly it’s January again.

Here are some simple ways to stay grounded and healthy through the summer without feeling restricted or overwhelmed.

1. Get Up at the Same Time

I know… not what anyone wants to hear.

But keeping a consistent wake-up time makes a huge difference. Late mornings often turn into late nights, which leads to low energy, skipped workouts, cravings, and relying on caffeine or sugar just to function.

You don’t have to wake up early every day, but keeping your schedule somewhat consistent helps your body stay regulated and your habits intact.

2. Create Daily “Anchors”

Anchors are small habits tied to things you already do every day.

For example:
• Brush your teeth, then change into workout clothes
• Get home from an errand, drink a full glass of water
• Check the mail, grab your healthy snack

These little pairings make healthy habits automatic instead of something you have to think about or rely on motivation for.

3. Bring It, Don’t Buy It

Summer is full of outings, trips, and events where food is everywhere. Instead of relying on whatever is available, plan ahead.

Bring your own snacks, meals, or cooler when possible. Most places allow outside food, or at least let you leave and come back. Choose one intentional treat and enjoy it, instead of grazing all day on whatever is around.

This saves money and helps you stay aligned with your goals.

4. Plan Ahead (Even Loosely)

You don’t need a strict schedule, but you do need a plan.

Decide ahead of time when you’ll work out, what nights you’ll cook, when you’ll go out, and when you’ll rest. Plan your groceries. Plan your sleep. Plan your “fun” days too.

You don’t have to be perfect. Even following your plan 70–80% of the time keeps you moving forward.

5. Choose Active Fun

Summer is the perfect time to move without it feeling like a workout.

Hikes, walks, swimming, bike rides, outdoor events, parks, and weekend adventures all count. When movement is built into your life, it stops feeling like something extra you “have to do.”

The more active your plans are, the easier it is to stay consistent.

6. Involve the Whole Family

Don’t make healthy habits something you do in spite of your family. Make them part of it.

Let kids help pick meals, choose active outings, or prep snacks. Get your partner involved so it feels like a team effort instead of a constant battle.

When everyone feels included, consistency becomes much easier.

Summer doesn’t have to derail your progress. With a little intention and a few simple systems, it can actually be the season that helps you build healthier habits that last.

If you ever need support, ideas, or accountability, I’m always here.