by Dana Rubin‑Winkelman, MSW, CAPSW, Social Worker, Adult Day Services
I hope you and your family are well. I am thinking of you and sending my positive thoughts. I hope to bridge the distance through this electronic connection.
Isn’t it fabulous when good times and good health collide? Last month, while I was off for a few days with family, I noticed that my “steps” increased. (“Steps” is just a fancy way to describe how active a person is throughout the day, measuring how many steps/miles walked.) Incredibly, without working hard or even thinking about exercise, I had more steps than ever! Wonderful, right?!
But how did this happen without my awareness? Here is the secret: it is simple, yet still complex. I learned the philosophy of getting in more steps without realizing it happens with a shift in mindset. Instead of viewing exercise as a separate task, we need to integrate it seamlessly into our lives. How do we do this? Try breaking up your routine and planning new activities with people you love. By doing something new each day, you can increase your overall level of activity. In addition, because novel experiences trigger a release of dopamine, a neurotransmitter that enhances mood and focus, you are also improving positive mental health and brain health. That’s it.
As promised, this month I will share more ideas to help you embrace summer. The activities can be modified for friends caring for a loved one with memory loss or anyone with a physical limitation. Use the list below to find your favorites and make plans with the people you love. Then, fill each day with joyful exploration and tons of unplanned steps. Also included are hot weather safety tips, brain health exercises, music with a breezy summer vibe, and 12 clickable links. Let’s go! It is time to create a little glorious unintended summer wellness!
“Summertime is always the best of what might be.” (Charles Bowden)
CREATE UNINTENTIONAL WELLNESS WITH THESE IDEAS
1. Farmers Markets: This is number one on my list because shopping and roaming around a good Farmers Market is one of my favorite things to do. Farmers Markets are a true joy for the senses! Enjoy the fresh smells, feel the warm summer breeze, and take in the bright colors and shapes! When I was a student at the University of Wisconsin-Madison, I soaked in my first Farmers Market. Now, I love them anywhere I go. My beautiful mom and I are going to explore new markets this summer. Who are you going with? Click here for more information and to find your favorite location.
“Summertime and the livin’ is easy.” (Porgy and Bess)
2. Discover More Local Magic:
- Milwaukee Public Market: This two-story market features unique vendors and a variety of delicious treats. Wander through the market and pick out lunch. For example, there is a variety of fish, chocolate, coffee, and cheese. Just give it a try – you will not be disappointed! Click here to browse or for more information.
- Milwaukee Art Museum: This striking building, designed by Santiago Calatrava, will impress. The Milwaukee Art Museum is a jewel in our city! Make a point to visit at noon when the iconic “wings” on the Calatrava building flap, or walk into the main atrium and enjoy the breathtaking view from inside. Click here for more information and hours of operation. Currently, they even have “Thursday Nights at MAM” with pay-what-you-wish admission. If getting out is harder, click here to enjoy incredible virtual tours and engaging videos.
- Outdoor Concerts: Almost any night of the summer, you can find a free outdoor concert. There are diverse locations and music. Pick your favorites and give a few a try. This is an especially lovely treat on a warm summer night. Click here for the Milwaukee Journal Sentinel’s “2025 Summer Guide to Free Outdoor Music Events.”
“Live in the sunshine, swim in the sea, drink the wild air.“ (Ralph Waldo Emerson)
3. Hot Weather Safety Tips: Before you soak up the summer outside, please don’t forget these important safety measures. They may seem obvious, but many people forget. Plan ahead and don’t overlook the importance of applying sunscreen, wearing a hat/visor, wearing sunglasses, packing snacks, and staying hydrated. In addition, remember to dress for comfort. Wear comfortable lightweight fabrics, lightweight socks, and supportive shoes. Have fun this summer and play it safe!
- To prevent dehydration, drink plenty of fluids. If it is particularly hot outside, drink water before, during, and after activities (even if you don’t feel thirsty). However, if you have a diagnosis that limits your fluid intake, check with your doctor for individual recommendations.
- Meet your daily water intake goals and stay hydrated by infusing water with fun, refreshing combinations. Create a hydration station by filling a glass dispenser with water. Add slices of citrus fruit and herbs like mint or basil for an extra burst of flavor. For a bit of inspiration, try these delicious and refreshing ideas.
“In July, even time slows down to sip something cold.“ (author unknown)
4. Summer Brain Health: Make brain health and wellness part of your daily routine and give your mind a boost! Today, I have included a variety of timed exercises. These exercises can help improve focus and enhance memory retrieval. Memory clinics often use timed cognitive tests for evaluation, so this practice is helpful. For each list below, set a timer for two minutes and write down as many related items as you can think of. How did you do?
- Name summertime activities.
- Name foods that are typically eaten in the summer.
- Name objects that are associated with summer.
“The summer night is like a perfection of thoughts.“ (Wallace Stevens)
5. Music With a Summer Vibe: Unwind and elevate your mood with these summertime tunes. Let the songs take you away and connect you to beautiful memories.
- “Hot Fun in the Summertime“ by Sly & The Family Stone: Led by Sly Stone, the Family Stone was comprised of men and women, as well as black and white musicians, making the band the first fully integrated group in rock history. Beautiful. Click here for the (2+ minute) reel with fun clips.
- “Summer Breeze“ by Seals & Crofts: This is from their album that reached No. 6 on the Billboard Top 100 in 1972. Click here for the (3-minute) audio.
- “Summertime Blues“ by Eddie Cochran: Enjoy this original video edited and AI remastered. This song hit the Billboard Hot 100 in 1958. Click here for the charming (2-minute) video.
- “Good Vibrations“ by The Beach Boys: This is widely considered their biggest hit. Click here for the (3+ minute) official video. (A warning: the video is a bit weird, but it still made me smile.)
- “Blue Skies“ by Frank Sinatra – Frank Sinatra had an incredible career spanning 60 years. Ol’ Blue Eyes’ version was released in 1952. Click here for the (2+ minute) audio.
“In summer, the song sings itself.“ (William Carlos Williams)
6. Speak Out Against Anti-Israel and Jewish Hate: Actor David Schwimmer said, “You don’t have to say anything political, no one’s asking you to solve the conflict in the Middle East. Just say that you stand with your Jewish friends, colleagues, and neighbors against hatred and discrimination.“ Please bring Israel into your thoughts with this prayer by The Maccabeats: Avinu Shebashamayim – A Prayer for the Welfare for the State of Israel.
“July is the month of sunshine and long days.“ (author unknown)
Meet someone and take yourself on an adventure! Fill yourself with joy and some magnificent unintentional wellness. I can’t wait to hear what you did.
Do you have a question related to aging, memory loss, community resources, or caregiving? I am here and happy to assist! Please do not hesitate to contact me.
Thinking of you and sending all my positive energy, light, and love,
Dana
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