Everyone can benefit from a vacation during the summer months. Allowing yourself to take a true break also gives you the opportunity to cultivate new interests, catch up on reading, exercise (maybe even try a new form), painting, gardening or whatever hobbies and interests you want to explore.

Then, of course, there is the fine art of doing nothing — which may not actually be the “nothing” you think it is!

“Rest is not idleness, and to lie sometimes on the grass on a summer day listening to the murmur of water, or watching the clouds float across the sky, is hardly a waste of time.” —John Lubbock

Taking the time to be in the moment is enriching whenever you take the opportunity to do so. You can start by noticing the things you see around you, the sounds you hear and the scents you smell. Breathe deeply and be fully present and see if it makes a difference in your mood and creates more calm in your day.

“You are so much sunshine in every square inch.” —Walt Whitman

Whether you choose to travel or enjoy a staycation, there is much to enjoy all around us. New York City is surrounded by beaches; many are easily accessible by subway, bus or railroad. We have some of the greatest museums in the world, and there are all sorts of free (or nominally priced) cultural events throughout the summer, from Celebrate Brooklyn in Prospect Park to the River to River Festival in downtown Manhattan and Lincoln Center’s Summer for the City festival on the Upper West Side. Do some research and check out those that pique your interest.

Here are some tips for making the most of your summer:

• Engage in activities that appeal to you but don’t fit into your busy schedule during the year or that you don’t think you are good at;
• Try something completely new — step out of your comfort zone;
• Make a list of things you like to do and find a buddy to accompany you;
• Spend time with people who have a different perspective from you — the synergy created will generate new ideas;
• Unplug from technology;
• Get outdoors and enjoy nature!

Work can be exhilarating and joyful, but it can also be demanding and stressful. Taking time away from work will help you to decompress and reflect on your work and will leave you refreshed and ready to take on the challenges of the year ahead.