The air is a bit cooler, even damp with a promise of light rain. The world is on the 3rd movement of Vivaldi’s L’estate. Summer is almost over. Students in the city are preparing for the reopening of classes, workers are getting back from their backpacking adventures. However in Flair Towers, the ending of this sun-kissed season is simply turning the page of the wall calendar. The vacation mode is always on in DMCI Properties’ resort-style condo communities.
Condo living has redefined the fast-paced lifestyle in the city. It debunks the notion that there’s little time for anything else other than one’s career. Condo living in the Philippines makes it possible for busy bees to maintain a healthful and compartmentalised lifestyle — one that accommodates work, fitness, hobbies, personal relationships and me-time.
Here are 8 low-key ways on how to enjoy the last days of summer in your Flair Towers abode.
“One benefit of Summer was that each day we had more light to read by.” ― Jeannette Walls, The Glass Castle
There are many interesting studies on the benefits of digging into a book apart from the obvious cognitive stimulation. Reading can prevent diseases such as Alzheimer’s by keeping the brain young. “Brainy pursuits make the brain more efficient by changing its structure to continue functioning properly in spite of age-related neuropathologies,” according to Dr. Robert Wilson, a professor of neuropsychology at Rush University Medical Center.
Get a copy of Haruki Murakami’s newest book Men Without Women, or Gustave Flaubert’s Madame Bovary. Dig into a good book while relaxing by the pool deck or at the sky lounge.
“Rest is not idleness, and to lie sometimes on the grass under trees on a summer's day, listening to the murmur of the water, or watching the clouds float across the sky, is by no means a waste of time.” ― John Lubbock, The Use Of Life
To enjoy quality time doesn’t necessarily mean that you have to be engaged in an activity. Since time immemorial, East Asian teachers have been encouraging meditation as an essential key in living a healthy life. Modern medicine suggests that it can reduce blood pressure, help manage stress, and alleviate physical pain. Mindfulness meditation, or the art of being present, is gaining popularity everywhere.
Lay on a straw mat on the open lawn and simply marvel at the wonders of the afternoon summer sky. Discard your perception of the past and the future, and simply savor the present moment.
“I could taste the salt on her lips, each kiss like a summer wave breaking on an empty beach.” ― Michael Faudet
Not even the grandest resort can replace the beauty of the simplest beach. The roaring waves, the salty and humid air and the rocky shore are nature’s gifts that cannot be replicated. It’s advisable to visit the beach at least once a year. The sea breeze is said to have therapeutic effects on the respiratory system. You can extend your summer beach getaway in Flair Towers. Kids can safely swim in the kiddie pool while the adults can enjoy a relaxing dip in the leisure and lap pools. You can invite a friend to join you or unwind on your own. Remember to observe condo pool etiquette for a harmonious community living.
“Rejoice as summer should...chase away sorrows by living.” ― Melissa Marr, Darkest Mercy
Do you have a hobby you keep neglecting? When was the last time you strummed your lonesome acoustic guitar? Do you still remember the last poem you passionately scribbled on your journal? Try disconnecting from your electronic devices for several hours on any given day and revisit activities that give you simple joys. Find inspiration for your artistic pursuits in the peaceful gazebo or cabana or from the marvellous view of the roof deck.
“How they dance in the courtyard, sweet summer sweat. Some dance to remember, some dance to forget.” ― Eagles, Hotel California
Dance is an expressive art that’s being used as a mental health therapy. The term dancing mindfulness is a new approach in practicing mindfulness meditation. According to the Institute of Creative Mindfulness, mindfulness in motion is comprised of seven primary areas: breath, sound, body, story, mind, spirit, and fusion (of all elements).
You can do mindfulness dancing with friends at the fitness gym. If you want some privacy, you can book the function hall on a weekend.
“Just to love! She did not ask to be loved. It was rapture enough just to sit there beside him in silence, alone in the summer night in the white splendor of moonshine, with the wind blowing down on them out of the pine woods.” ― L.M. Montgomery, The Blue Castle
Before the warm season ends, enjoy quality time with your partner. You can stroll around the condo community, cook a healthy meal, and have a candlelight dinner at the sky lounge. Have a real conversation, without the emojis in your usual virtual catch-ups. Discuss your interests, plan your next vacation, and maybe talk about the future.
“Tears are the summer showers to the soul.” ― Alfred Austin
When was the last time a film moved you? Films, like other art forms, serve humanity far beyond entertainment. They deliver a message, question one’s ideals, and inspire action. Check out the films streaming online via HBO or Netflix. You should also explore new TV series such as National Geographic’s “Genius” and Starz’s “American Gods.” Watch a good film or TV show on your smartphone or tablet while lounging on the pool deck or the landscaped gardens.
“The hours were long, but the days were short, and as much as I willed it to never come, the end of summer arrived anyway.” ― Chelsey Philpot, Even in Paradise
Seasons will come and go. Summer will soon draw down its curtains to make way for the rainy months ahead. Celebrate the blessings of your life by hosting a simple lunch with family or close friends. Flair Towers offers a number of venues for you: the picnic grove, the sky lounge and the roof deck. Enjoy the last of the lukewarm summer breeze while enjoying good wine with people who truly matter to you.
Make most of the remaining days of May in your condo community. Explore tips to enjoy the last days of summer without spending much. You can have a picnic with your cousins, finish an acclaimed TV series, read a good book or simply adore the summer skies in solitude. Then, look forward to the exciting months ahead.