So today, I have a confession to make. I have a big, nasty, raging bad habit. But the first step to self-improvement is admitting you have a problem, right? So here’ goes: One of my longest running issues is that I never, ever slow down. It’s always go go go, one more event, on top of one more project, on top of one more to-do with no end in sight! I was able to get away with that modus operandi through my 20’s no problem, but it’s really starting to catch up with me these days.

I’ve realized two critical things. Your body does age. You do get tired. Things hurt that never used to {you know… those things you made fun of your parents for complaining about} and really, I’m not that old.  But most importantly, I’ve realized it’s also not a great way for my soul to live. A life without a pause button means you leave a lot of people in your dust. That approach makes it challenging to extend the time and attention meaningful relationships deserve. So as we head into summer, I’ve come up with a personal challenge that I thought I’d share with you: to take advantage of the naturally more mellow season and dedicate time to really chilling out. And what better way than with a comfy dress & some good tunes?!

what I’m wearing: Old Navy Maxi Dress // Bang & Oulfsen Headphones // Tokyo Bay Watch similar // Sweet & Spark vintage bracelets // Dolce Vita Sandals // Make Up Forever Lip Gloss in Frozen Pink

Isn’t it amazing how the perfect song can completely change your mood? And while I love good tunes {I was even a hardcore festival-goer back in the day}, I too often forget to turn them on! So to help break up my usual agenda of go-go-go, for the next couple of months I’m setting aside Sunday afternoons for dedicated relaxation. With a super comfy maxi dress {seriously, I think I found my official weekend uniform no matter what I’m up to!}, maybe a pile full of magazines {or even a book!} and most importantly open-ended time, I’m hoping I can break my always-in-a-rush cycle.

To help me – and you! – get into a good health grove, we put together a slowdown for summer soundtrack. Have you found your signature summer song yet? Hopefully, one of these might help you relax and unwind so by the time Fall rolls around we’ll all be cool as cucumbers together!

> Latch | Disclosure featuring Sam Smith

> No No No | Pumpkin blood

> Bonfire Heat | James Blunt

> Sonnentanz | Klangkarussel

> Not Giving In | Rudimental

> Love like You’ve Never Been Hurt | Orion Hedvig

> Chocolate | The1975

> Riptide | Vance Joy

> Mountain Sound | Of Monster and Men

> Summertime Sadness | Lana Del Ray

> Nirvana | Sam Smith

> Float | Pacific Air

Listen to our Slow Down for Summer Soundtrack {and follow us} on Spotify!

 

original photography for apartment 34 by aubrie pick 

This post was sponsored by Old Navy. Check out Old Navy’s latest fashion lineup in store or online at oldnavy.com. Thanks for supporting posts that keep Apartment 34’s doors open!