Golden Evenings: Ending Summer Days Slowly

There's a special time on summer evenings, after the heat of the day has softened and before darkness falls. The light turns golden. Shadows grow long. Birds sing their last songs. Everything seems to slow down.

These golden evenings are one of summer's quiet gifts. And yet many of us spend them on the sofa with a screen, or rushing through chores.

Here are some ideas for slowing down and truly enjoying them.

Step outside

Even ten minutes outdoors in the evening light can change how you feel. Sit on a balcony, step into the garden or walk around the block. Notice the colour of the sky and the warm air on your skin.

Eat outside

Take dinner outdoors when you can: a table in the garden, a picnic in the park, a simple plate on the balcony. Food seems to taste better in the open air.

Take an evening walk

A slow stroll after dinner is a lovely summer ritual. There's no destination. Just walk, notice and let the day settle.

Watch the sunset

Find a spot with a view, even if it's only a gap between houses, and watch the sun go down. Stay until the colours fade. It's one of nature's most calming shows, and it's free every evening.

Turn screens off earlier

Bright screens and busy feeds can pull us out of the evening's gentle mood. Try putting your phone away for the last hour or two of the day.

Create a slow ritual

Choose one small thing to do each summer evening:

• Water the plants.
• Sit with a cup of herbal tea.
• Write three good things from the day.
• Read a few pages outside.
• Listen to the birds.

Doing the same simple thing each evening tells your body and mind that the day is coming to a close.

Light a lantern

As the light fades, light a candle or lantern outside (safely), or switch on soft fairy lights. It keeps the cosy glow going a little longer.

Let the day go

As darkness falls, take a deep breath and let the day go. Whatever happened, it's done now. Tomorrow is a new day.

Golden light for golden evenings

Our two-hour video Gentle Waves, with soft waves rolling in under a golden ocean sunset, is a perfect companion for slow summer evenings:

▶ Watch Gentle Waves on YouTube

In closing

Step outside, eat in the open air, walk slowly, watch the sunset and let the day go. Golden evenings don't last forever, so enjoy every slow, warm minute.

For a calm evening ritual all year round, read The Sunset Pause: A Ritual to End the Day Kindly.

Ethnoscape Media shares content for relaxation, inspiration and general information. It is not medical or psychological advice. Please talk to a qualified professional about your health.