June Joy: Self-Care Tips with Pride, Donuts, and Oceans of Inspiration

June is here, bringing sunshine, summer vibes, and an endless buffet of opportunities to prioritize your mental health. From World Ocean Day to Pride Month, this is the time to embrace connection, self-expression, and maybe a few donuts. (Because donuts are a form of self care, obviously.) Let’s dive into June with all its quirks and celebrations while keeping your self-care game strong. June has a ton of fun Calendar Days to help remind you , too!

Why Pride Month is Self-Care for Everyone

Pride is a celebration of authenticity, resilience, and love. It’s also a reminder to be unapologetically yourself - whether you’re part of the LGBTQ+ community or an ally.

Pride-Themed Self-Care Ideas:

• Celebrate You: Reflect on what makes you unique and wonderful.
• Support Others: Attend a Pride event (here is the list for Virginia 2025) or donate to an LGBTQ+ organization.
• Wear Your Colors: Dress in a way that expresses your joy and identity - whatever that looks like!
• Educate Yourself: my book club picked a relevant book and we had a ton of options - also some documentaries we might watch about Stonewall and the Gay Liberation Movement and its leaders, like Martha Johnson.  

Why Bikes Are Freedom on Two Wheels 

Riding a bike is a joyful blend of movement and mindfulness. It’s like therapy, but with a breeze. Whether you’re biking to work or cruising around town, it’s a reminder that you’re stronger than you think. June 3rd is World Bicycle Day. Riding a bike feels kind of like flying - and it’s a great way to move your body while soaking up some sunshine. Plus, it’s an eco-friendly nod to Earth Day (April 22). 

Bicycle-Themed Self-Care Ideas:

• Take a Leisurely Ride: No need to set records; just enjoy the wind on your face.
• Explore New Trails: Use apps like Trailforks to find hidden gems in your area.
• Bike with Friends: Movement + connection = double the mood boost.

Reflective Question: What’s one way you can bring more playfulness into your week?

Why Cheese is Comfort Food for the Soul - and yes, Donuts are Self-Care!

Cheese is like a warm hug - gooey, indulgent, and completely satisfying. Let it remind you that sometimes, comfort is the best form of care. Who doesn’t like cheese? June 4th is National Cheese Day.

Cheese-Themed Self-Care Ideas:

• Cheese Tasting Night: Explore new flavors (bonus points if you pair them with wine).
• Cook Something Cheesy: Try a gooey mac and cheese or a fancy charcuterie board.
• Celebrate Simplicity: A grilled cheese and tomato soup combo can be as grounding as a therapy session.

Donuts are round reminders that life is better with sprinkles. They’re a perfect metaphor for balance: you can enjoy sweet treats without guilt while practicing mindfulness (slow down and savor that glaze!). June 7th is National Donut Day

Donut-Themed Self-Care Ideas:

• DIY Donut Day: Make your own donuts at home - it’s creative and delicious.
• Mindful Eating: Notice the texture, flavor, and joy of every bite.
• Treat Someone: Bring a box to a friend or coworker as a random act of kindness.

Reflective Question: What small indulgence (like donuts or cheese) can you enjoy guilt-free this week?

Why World Ocean Day (June 8) is a Mental Health Reminder

The ocean is vast, grounding, and healing. Whether you’re near water or just dreaming of it, connecting with nature can be incredibly restorative. Incidentally, June 8th is not only World Oceans Day but also National Best Friends Day  and Global Wellness Day!

Ocean-Themed Self-Care Ideas:

• Visit the Water: A beach, lake, or even a fountain can soothe the soul.
• Meditate to Ocean Sounds: Let the waves calm your mind and body.
• Pick Up Trash: A small act of care for the Earth is also self-care.

Why Friendship is Mental Health’s Secret Weapon

National Best Friends Day  is a great excuse to connect with your people. Friendships are grounding, supportive, and a reminder that you’re never alone.

Friendship-Themed Self-Care Ideas:

• Send a Thoughtful Message: Reach out to a friend with a kind word or memory.
• Plan a Meet-Up: Share a meal, go for a walk, or just hang out.
• Be a Cheerleader: Celebrate your friends’ wins, big or small.

Why Iced Tea is Summer’s Mindfulness Ritual

A glass of iced tea is the ultimate refreshment, reminding you to stay cool, hydrated, and present. June 10th is National Iced Tea Day. Also, a lovely beverage option after a bike ride with your best friend - though I like Arnold Palmers even better (Unsweet tea with lemonade). 

Iced Tea-Themed Self-Care Ideas:

• Make Your Own Blend: Experiment with fruits, herbs, and teas to find your perfect brew.
• Drink Outside: Sip slowly while soaking in the sun.
• Tea and Journaling: Pair your tea with reflective writing for a calming ritual.

Reflective Question: What’s one way you can slow down and savor life this week?

Why Cameras Help You See the Beauty in Life

Photography invites you to slow down and notice the world around you. Capturing a moment can also be an act of gratitude - focusing on what’s beautiful and meaningful in your life. June 15th is Nature Photography Day and June 29th is National Camera Day.

Camera-Themed Self-Care Ideas:

• Photo Walk: Grab your phone or camera and document small joys (flowers, shadows, smiles).
• Print Your Favorites: Create a collage or frame photos that bring you peace.
• Try Nature Photography: Use your lens to connect with the world outside.

Why Typewriters are Nostalgic Self-Care

There’s something grounding about the click-clack of typewriter keys. Writing - even if it’s just for you - can help you process emotions, reduce stress, and spark creativity. June 23 is National Typewriter Day

Typewriter-Themed Self-Care Ideas:

• Write a Letter: Send someone a handwritten note (type it if you have a typewriter!).
• Start a Journal: Record your thoughts, dreams, or favorite moments.
• Get Artsy: Try blackout poetry or decorate your journal pages.

Reflective Question: How can you celebrate and support your identity and relationships this week?

Solstice, Sushi, Yoga and Sunglasses

Why the Solstice (June 21) is a Time for Reflection

The longest day of the year is an opportunity to pause, soak in the light, and reflect on what’s growing in your life.

Solstice-Themed Self-Care Ideas:

• Create a Summer Bucket List: What fun or restorative things do you want to try?
• Meditate Outside: Use the sun’s warmth as a grounding anchor.
• Celebrate Growth: Acknowledge how far you’ve come since the start of the year.

Why Sushi is a Mindful Meal

Sushi is an art form - delicate, balanced, and thoughtful. Eating sushi (or making it!) can be a reminder to slow down, appreciate the details, and savor each bite. Sushi Day is June 18th.

Sushi-Themed Self-Care Ideas:

• Try a New Roll: Step out of your comfort zone with a unique flavor.

• Make Your Own Sushi: Get creative with ingredients and presentation.

Share a Meal: Sushi is best enjoyed with good company.

Why Yoga is Self-Care:

Yoga combines movement, mindfulness, and breathwork - all of which are fantastic for mental health. Plus, it’s adaptable for all levels, whether you’re doing downward dog or just lying in savasana. International Yoga Day is June 21!

Yoga-Themed Self-Care Ideas:

• Morning Stretch: Start your day with 10 minutes of gentle yoga.

• Try a New Pose: Explore a challenging pose to boost confidence and focus.

Yoga with Friends: Bond over a class or practice together at home.

Why Sunglasses Are Self-Care Accessories

Sunglasses are more than stylish - they protect your eyes, add confidence, and remind you to enjoy the sunshine responsibly. Sunglasses Day is June 27th.

Sunglasses-Themed Self-Care Ideas:

• Invest in a Favorite Pair: Find sunglasses that make you feel fabulous.
• Take a Walk in the Sun: Protect your eyes while boosting your mood with sunlight.
• Channel Your Inner Rockstar: Wear sunglasses and embrace your bold side.

Reflective Question: What light - literal or metaphorical - can you celebrate and enjoy this week?

Resources & Links

• How to Create an Affordable and Sustainable Self-Care Plan 
• Self-Care vs. Coping Skills Explained
• May Your Mental Health Thrive
• April Awesomeness: Grilled Cheese, Trees, & How to Be Your Own Superhero
• March Toward Mindfulness
• Reclaiming Self Care
• Making a Realistic Self Care Plan - April 2024
• Greater Good Science Center