By Rachelle Trujillo
rmt5153@gmail.com

Many Wyomingites could agree that this past winter was brutal. Record-breaking snowfall, high wind speeds, and prolonged road closures no doubt made the winter months drag. What’s more, Laramie seems to only recently, and finally, be embracing the summer time weather.

Many individuals suffer from SAD, or seasonal affective depression. With the winter months officially behind us, we can soak up the longer days and intense sunshine. For a time of year that is so long awaited, why not take the time to slow down and enjoy it? In a fast-paced, productivity-driven society, it’s more important than ever that we learn to look around and smell the roses.

Summer is the perfect time to plan a day to wake up a bit earlier and watch the sunrise. Or if that’s too early, even taking the time to start your day earlier than the rest of the city can be a welcome break from encountering too many other walkers on the bike paths or drivers on the road. With more daylight later in the day, there’s no better time than this season to plan your evening activities outdoors.

Take advantage of the warm weather by opting for a short walk on your lunch break, or even biking to work. If that’s too big a commitment, close your eyes and face the sun, breathing in extra deep before getting in the car to start your day. Spend even a moment with your bare feet in the grass– after all, humans are the only species to have ever put material between themselves and the earth. 

Too often we tend to wish for the next period of our life while dismissing the one we’re currently in. Think back to all the cold January days that you couldn’t wait for warmer weather. Well, now it’s here! Take some time to enjoy, not only these summer months, but all of life’s simple pleasures here forward.