Summer is a time of abundance, when nature shows us just how bountiful it can be. The sun graces us with its warmth, power, and free doses of vitamin D, which our body can't make on its own, but needs in order to keep our bones and cells healthy. Since summer is a magical time, it lends itself to being a wonderful time of the year to create rituals to be happier. And by rituals we mean a series of symbolic acts that help you focus on your intentions and put you in a positive mindset. Or as psychologists define a ritual, "a predefined sequence of symbolic actions often characterized by formality and repetition that lacks direct instrumental purpose."
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Rituals have been performed by humans probably for as long as humans have been around, but why? Well, some rituals like religious ones, are a way for us to express our values and pass them on to others. Think baptisms, communions, and so on. Rituals are also a way we mark certain life stages and journeys. Think graduations and funerals. But we practice much smaller rituals throughout or lives because they help give us a sense of order, relieve anxiety, and let our brains let go of whatever is not serving us at the moment. The best part is that we can create our own rituals that are meant to make us happier. Here are a few to inspire you, but remember that when it comes to creating a ritual that works for you, you are the expert.