30 Low-Energy Things to Do on a Hot Summer Day
Hot summer days can feel lovely in theory; however, as the past week has shown, when you’re already low on energy, overwhelmed, or just struggling with the heat, they can also feel a bit overwhelming and utterly exhausting.
So let’s remember not every sunny day needs to turn into a big adventure, a packed social calendar, or a productivity marathon. Sometimes the best thing you can do is slow down, stay comfortable, and find small ways to make the day feel a little softer.
So if you’re dealing with low energy, heat fatigue, burnout, or simply one of those “I can’t really be bothered today” moods, here are some gentle ideas for making the most of a hot summer day, without putting pressure on yourself.
Cool & Comforting Ideas
1. Make yourself an iced drink
There’s something oddly soothing about sitting down with a cold drink in your favourite glass. (Is it just me who has to pick up a mango and passionfruit cooler from Costa every time they go past and it’s hot?)
2. Sit dramatically in front of a fan
No explanation needed, this is basically a summer ritual at this point. (Also, if you struggle with the heat as much as I do, I really recommend a portable air con unit, yes, they cost a bit, and they aren’t that cheap to run, but it helps me survive.
3. Freeze fruit for an easy snack
Frozen grapes, strawberries, or mango can feel surprisingly refreshing on hot days. (Note to self: try blending them for a homemade cooler, perhaps.)
4. Watch calming videos or rain sounds
Even if it’s boiling outside, there’s something comforting about cosy background noise and pretending your somewhere cold.
5. Put a cool flannel on the back of your neck
Tiny effort, yet surprisingly effective.
6. Eat something simple and cold
Summer is absolutely the season for picky snack meals.
7. Keep the curtains closed during the hottest part of the day
Your future self will thank you later, also closing the windows can help, as you aren’t letting hot outside air in!
8. Sit somewhere shady for a few minutes
You don’t need a full walk or outing for fresh air to count; it could just be in your back garden.
9. Have an unnecessarily long cool shower
Sometimes that’s the main event for the day, honestly.
10. Put fresh bedding on the bed
Few things feel better during hot weather than cool, clean sheets.
Tiny Comforts at Home
11. Open the windows and let the air move around
First thing in the morning and once it’s cooled down in the evening, make sure you open up the windows and let in the fresh air.
12. Read a few pages of something light
No pressure to finish a whole book, a few pages still count, and bonus points if you do it while lounging in the garden.
13. Listen to an audiobook or podcast
Perfect for days when concentrating feels like too much effort.
14. Watch a comfort show you’ve seen before
Sometimes, familiar is exactly what you need.
15. Rearrange one tiny corner of your space
Not a full room makeover, just a small reset – even if it’s just of your favourite trinkets.
16. Sit quietly with your favourite drink
No multitasking required, just sit and enjoy the moment.
17. Light a summery candle in the evening
Summer scents somehow make evenings feel softer.
18. Wear the comfiest clothes you own
This is not the time for uncomfortable outfits. Hands up, I’ve been wearing my Oodie nightshirts in the day.
19. Put together a picky bits lunch
Tiny plates, random snacks, minimal effort, but perfect to eat.
20. Spend some time offline for a bit
The internet will survive without you for half an hour, and you might just enjoy being in the “world”.
Gentle Outdoor Moments
21. Sit outside for five minutes
That’s it, that’s the task.
22. Watch the sunset
Summer evenings really do have their own atmosphere, and sometimes those sunsets can be magical.
23. Listen to birds or distant summer sounds
There’s something weirdly calming about hearing the world carry on around you, especially when you can hear nature around.
24. Put your feet on the grass
A very small yet grounding activity.
25. Water plants slowly and dramatically
Instant peaceful summer main character energy.
26. Eat ice cream outside
Simple joys still count as proper plans.
27. Take photos of little summer moments
Flowers, shadows, skies, iced coffees; whatever catches your eye.
28. Sit by water if you can
A canal, lake, river, or even just a fountain can make hot days feel calmer. If anyone wants to meet up at the Laughing Duck for a cuppa – just let me know!
29. Watch the sky change in the evening
One of the nicest parts of summer is how slowly evenings arrive.
30. Let yourself rest without feeling guilty
You do not have to earn rest just because the weather is nice.
A Gentle Reminder
You don’t need to make every summer day productive, exciting, or Instagram-worthy for it to matter.
Some days are for adventures, some days are for slowing down, and some days are just about getting through the heat as comfortably as possible. That still counts.
What’s your favourite low-energy summer day activity?
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These are all great ideas – I’m pathetic when the weather is too hot. I’m saving this for the next hot day – it’s currently cold and wet outside and I’m seriously thinking about putting the heating on for an hour to warm through, definitely don’t need it today.
It’s been horrid today hasn’t it? I had an appointment earlier so was out in the wet then came home and just couldn’t warm up – it’s so far from the 30 degrees of just a few weeks ago.
Nothing like sitting in the shade, enjoying an ice cream on a hot summers day.
I am with you there – I really need to top up the freezer with some ice creams.
I’m all for doing nothing on a hot summer day. I don’t feel guilty lying on my lounge chair in the back garden reading a good book.
You most definitely shouldn’t! I found when I was using the Visible band my heart rate would be in exertion all day long! It’s no wonder hot days feel so exhausting!
sit in my garden under the parasol
I hadn’t thought of listening to rain, thanks for that suggestion
It’s one of those sounds that can be so relaxing.
I just love the summer, but on particularly hot days I must admit that not much gets done after the early morning. Tomorrow is another day!
I really struggle with the heat I have to say – I like it when its cooler.
Love this! Whenever it’s too hot i’m so lazy so these are some great ideas
It’s so hard isn’t it! I just want to lay and do nothing on a hot day.