Overcoming ‘Sunshine Guilt’: Why It’s Okay to Stay Inside This Summer
During the summer when the days are longer and hotter, many people want to take advantage of the abundant sunshine and go outside. It’s the season for beaches, picnics, and outdoor fun.
But what if being around crowds of people or basking in the sun is not your idea of fun? What if it is causing anxiety and guilt instead? According to House and Garden, this is known as “sunshine guilt”, and it is a feeling that is becoming prevalent in Millennials and GenZers.
Sunshine guilt describes the pressure people put on themselves when they choose not to go outside on a sunny day. The feeling that they are wasting the day and giving up opportunities for well-being and connections. The term gained traction when a TikTok video by Renee Reiner went viral when she shared her experiences of staying home on a beautiful day.
“While it is not a clinical term, it is a very real experience,” Carolina Traverso, psychotherapist and mindfulness teacher told House and Garden. Fortunately, there are ways to overcome sunshine guilt. Here are five tips you can use.
@charliehealth Have you ever felt guilty for staying indoors on a beautiful, sunny day? There’s actually a name for this feeling: sunshine guilt. Never feel guilty for taking time for yourself, even if that means staying inside on a sunny day. #sunshineguilt #summermentalhealth
Change Your Mindset
Be kinder to yourself by avoiding negative self-talk, according to a blog on Psychology Today. Instead of judging yourself, shift your mindset to one of conscious decision making. Rather than thinking that you are wasting the day, tell yourself that I am choosing to rest and recharge today. This transforms guilt into empowerment.
Bring the Outdoors In
You can bring the best of the outdoors inside. Open your windows so you can hear the chirping birds and rustling leaves. You can sit by the window and read a book using natural light. This way you can enjoy a beautiful day without the hustle and bustle of going to a crowded beach, park, or outdoor market.
Schedule Rest
Your body and mind need rest. Make sure that you schedule a time to chill out the same way you schedule appointments and social events. Legitimize this time by putting it on your calendar or to-do list. This protects this time from the pressure to do something else.
Turn off Devices
Being on social media will only increase the pressure to do outside social activities, explained House and Garden. So, turn off the pressure and the guilt by going offline for at least part of the day. Spend the time on something you really enjoy. Start a hobby, keep a journal, or read a good book.
Go Outdoors on Your Own Terms
If you want to spend some time in the sun, do so on your own terms. You don’t have to spend hours outside or attend a social event. You can take a short walk outdoors, have coffee on your balcony or deck, or water your flowers. It doesn’t have to be all or nothing. You can enjoy the outdoors or stay indoors without experiencing sunshine guilt.
