Happy Summer, Gurus! I hope you all are enjoying the warm weather as the July heat rolls in! How will you be enjoying summer this year? Maybe like many Americans do, gathering friends and family for a festive Chili Cook-Off or BBQ? How fun, but also potentially stressful! If you are predictably the host of this summer’s festivities, keeping a large crowd entertained and safe can be stressful. So how do you stay centered in all of the commotion that the summer brings?

Great question! I have thought up a few ways that you can stay relaxed, yet still enjoy the fun that comes with the season. This summer, instead of taking on all the pressure of cooking, entertaining, and playing safety patrol, take your summer cookout to a local park or beach. The fresh air and opportunity to be out in nature will be a nice change from being stuck in the kitchen all day preparing the coleslaw and potato salad. Another benefit to having your BBQ in a park is you do not have to do the dishes and clean up your house after the guests leave. Bring recyclable products and a giant trash bag to the park and you’re set.

“Who knows, you may find a dish you really love and would have never thought of preparing.”

Also, this year, why do you have to take the brunt of doing all of the cooking? Time to DELEGATE! When sending out invitations to your guests, ask them to RSVP with the number of guests and the dish they are bringing. This takes the pressure off of yourself to have to do everything. You will be surprised at how people are willing to help out. Allowing others to bring their dish of choice adds a little excitement to your summer BBQ. Who knows, you may find a dish you really love and would have never thought of preparing.

Most importantly, enjoy the time with your family and friends. Summer only comes once a year and sometimes just connecting with the ones you love is all it takes to help you find your center. I hope this helps you stay relaxed this summer! Until next time, stay centered Gurus!