In Colorado, summer means blue skies, puffy clouds and trees regaining their leaves. The warmer air means spending more time outside in the bright sunlight. For some of us, it also means a break from classes and the freedom to have more leisure time.
The first time someone told me that they liked winter over summer, I was shocked. It was like saying they preferred frostbite and their nose constantly running over a delicate breeze and sunlight. There’s nothing I would trade August’s evening thunderstorms for, with the cool rain soaking into the earth after a hot day.
That’s not to say that summer doesn’t come with its drawbacks — Colorado summers are known for high fire danger and droughts — but at least there is no snow to shovel, no ice to slip on. As someone who cares for grandparents who live close by, every snowstorm is a reminder of the dangers of winter weather. Whether it be falling on a slick surface or skidding on icy roads, winter can be dangerous.
Driving to campus during the winter is often dangerous for the many commuter students at UCCS. It can be difficult for studentswith accessibility needs, to move through the slush and freezing wind that separates each building on campus. In the summer, however, it is much easier to walk from building to building. One of my favorite things to do on campus is enjoy the shade from the huge trees near Main Hall.
In fact, summer comes with a lot of benefits that winter does not provide. According to an article by Livingly, summer comes with health benefits like an increase in Vitamin D and the fruit that only grows in the summertime. Watermelon is always something I enjoy, and I know many of my friends look forward to oranges, peaches and strawberries.
Summer has been shown to have a positive impact on mental health. According to an article by Keri Powell Therapy, “The sun gives us more vitamin D, which raises energy levels and just simply makes us feel happier.”
“A lack of vitamin D has been linked to osteoporosis, cancer, muscle weakness and depression. Therefore, getting a healthy dose of vitamin D is imperative,” the article says. Spending more time outside can go a long way in feeling a little bit better each day.
For me, summer is a time to relax and to enjoy the weather outside. I can finally stop wearing my thick coats and sweatshirts and put on my light, airy clothes and flip-flops. Summer refreshes me and reminds me that the world is good again, that the sunlight smiles on my face, that the breeze dances on my skin.
In the end, whether you agree with me or not, summer is almost here. Make the most of it!
Photo from the American Heart Association.