Relaxation

In last week's blog, I unveiled some of the fall fun happening around the Sheboygan area in the coming weeks, but this week I am returning to summer content. Afterall, it's still the summer season and I am all about fun in the sun, warm weather, days by the beach, and enjoying all the sweetness summer brings this time of year. So let's talk about how to soak up the most summer relaxation out of these last few weeks as possible.

Relaxation: isn’t that what we all aspire for ourselves during the summer months? The heat waves lulling us into a lazy trance of sitting under the sun, for backyard barbeques, tanning with a summer read, catching up with good friends with a cool drink in hand. Sounds like a dream, right? As much as we desire this summer rejuvenation, it’s too easy for these golden months to get stuffed with summer school, work deadlines, camps for the kids, weddings, and before you know it, you only have one week of summer not filled to the brim…and it’s your planned family vacation.

It can be hard to focus on relaxation when you’re used to such a go-go-go schedule, which is why we’re here to promote time for you to just take it easy. When the heat waves start rolling in, it’s time to kick back, feel the sunshine on your skin, and just chill out.

Surfs up!

Feel like taking a dip? Sheboygan is the Freshwater Capital of the World, and this draws a lot of surf culture to the area. EOS Surf Shop is a surf, kayak, and paddleboard outfitter located in downtown Sheboygan, near the lakefront. Anything from rentals, to lessons, watersport gear, and cool surf-culture merch, it’s a Sheboygan staple you’ve got to check out. You’ve never seen this much surf culture this far from California, that’s for sure.

While surfing might not strike you as the most relaxing thing you could indulge in on your vacation, for some the experience of trying something unique is an act of relaxation and self-prioritization. Plus, after your excursion you can hang out on the beach for as long as you want, watch the rolling waves you conquered, and sip a drink.

Welcome to the Malibu of the Midwest

Stay awhile. We bet you never would have guessed these photos were taken in Wisconsin. Kohler-Andrae State Park is a gorgeous park with sand dunes, winding beach trails, plants and wildlife, and beautiful terrain that almost seems like it could be straight out of Tolkien’s Middle Earth.

You can easily spend all day in this gorgeous preserved state park, and still return the next day to see more of the beaches and trails! Why not take a summer picnic to the dunes? Pack juicy watermelon, fresh ripe berries, a charcuterie board arrangement of your favorite snacks and dips, and of course something sweet for dessert, but make sure you’re responsible with any waste, and protect the park, beach, and water. Any trash you bring is trash you take home with you.

Post-Poolside treats

What’s better than chilling on a pool float on a hot summer afternoon? Ice cream by the pool! Imagine finishing off a fun day laying by the pool, splashing in the water, and reading while laying on the pool deck, birds chirping, and insects humming in the background as the sun gets higher in the sky, then tossing on your post-pool lounge wear and grabbing an oozing ice cream cone of your favorite flavor, the epitome of summer vacation.

Summer Strolls Along the Lakeshore

Leisurely summer strolls are a slightly different take on relaxation. Sometimes relaxation means crashing out in a comfy seat, other times it can mean connecting with nature, and submerging yourself in the natural world. Walking along water is actually proven to decrease stress levels and calm our bodies and minds.

Whether you’re in need of a mental health break, hoping to enjoy the outdoors, or disconnect from your phone and emails, the lake and it’s soothing waves are waiting! Follow the breakwater out to the Sheboygan lighthouse, located on Deland Park. This lighthouse has been standing since 1915, and is a popular photo op destination in Sheboygan. Additionally, on your way out to the lighthouse, stop at the new Sheboygan Malibu of the Midwest selfie-stop installation!

Heat Waves and Sun Rays Call for Summer Sips

We love a variety of cocktails and mocktails, iced coffees, and lemonades. A chilled, refreshing drink is a staple of the summer. See Summer Flavors for some mixology inspiration and other tasty summer foods we associate with this season!

One of the easiest and best ways to indulge in relaxation this summer is by kicking your feet up and sipping a special drink. If you are a person okay with making or ordering “the usual,” switch it up each summer with a new go-to. You’re likely to associate a specific drink or scent with a particular time in your life if you smell or taste it regularly, so choose something you want to remember summer 2024 by!

Exciting Escapism

During your day to day life, when you find yourself eager for rest or a day to yourself, envision yourself flipping mindlessly through a magazine, delving into a book you seem to never have enough time to make progress reading, or take an hour or two to recharge your batteries in peaceful contemplation at Bookworm Gardens.

Perhaps partaking in your hobby, such as doing something artistic or playing an instrument, or maybe just sitting in a comfy chair and calling a friend you’ve been meaning to catch up with will give you a little escape or simply take a refreshing and cozy nap, curling up in your favorite spot like a cat.

Whether it’s during your vacation or an average afternoon at home, prioritize carving out a little bit of space for yourself to slow down and manage your energy levels. Stress from our everyday schedules eats up your energy more than you think, so ensuring you have as little as 20 minutes of “me time” a day can really make a difference. Whatever floats your boat and feels recharging to you, make it a habit this summer to incorporate relaxation into your daily routine.

Check out this article's images and more in Lake Life Sheboygan Summer 2024.