Tips from our community on using the July glow to level up naturally with soft mornings, fresh routines, mindset shifts and low effort habits that bring high vibe results.
Credits
Photography: G.fields_photos (ZEAL Media Team)
Editing: In-house by ZEAL
Models: Sydney, Savjeet, Hammad, Jenayah
Location & Brand: Kelowna Flower Farms
July in Kelowna
What are you looking to accomplish?
For some, July is about the closeness of friends and the laughter of summer adventures. For others, it’s solo missions, quiet wellness moments, and time to realign. And for many, it’s a mix of both.
In our experience, letting yourself feel and move with the energy of the day brings the most peace. Some days are full of movement, purpose, and clarity. Others are slower — full of small tasks that don’t exactly feel like “summer joy.” But they’re part of it too.
The truth is, in an ever-growing world, people, jobs, places, and things are constantly asking for your energy. And while committing to your goals is important, forgetting yourself in the process isn’t doing anyone a solid.
When you fall out of routines you genuinely enjoy, even the little things become heavier. It adds up — to the point where you stop expecting happiness and freedom in your life.
Don’t become a zombie. Don’t hand over your light.
This month, we’re tapping into how our community is staying grounded, creative, connected, and still showing up for their responsibilities — without losing themselves in the noise.
Because July is here to remind you: peace is productive too.
Create Create Create
We get it, UGC cringe is a thing. But is it really cringe, or is it just preparation, creation, and growth all wrapped up? If what you want is freedom — your voice, your story, making things that reflect you while capturing memories and opening doors to new experiences — then who is really there to stop you?
Routines can look like anything. We will share some of our favourites further down, but one of the biggest values in our ZEAL community is letting our inner child come out to play.
That excitement before you go out — maybe a little pre-drink, or a cup of tea, or a quick meditation. Maybe your hype playlist while you find the perfect outfit. Thinking through, What do I want to do today?
That simple freedom to choose should feel like a light switch turning on inside you. Many do not have the chance to be this free, so why limit yourself by the standards of others?
Here is what we do:
First, we ask, What experience do I really want?
Once we clock it, we commit.
I am going to show up for it. I am going to put my energy into getting ready — or not — and get myself in the best mood possible. Maybe that is just being excited that I get to do something unique, something that is mine.
Creating is not cringe. It is freedom in motion.
Our Time Playing at Kelowna Flower Farms
We had such a fun time creating with this incredible local brand that has been established in Kelowna for 20 years. At Kelowna Flower Farms, they specialize in top quality, unique plant material. As a California style garden centre, you are sure to find something spectacular.
They grow rare varieties and carry trusted names like Monrovia to create custom patio plant designs and so much more. The farm is filled with tropical plants that promise to beautify your garden, patio, home, or business.
Spending time there really took our community members out of their element. Being in a space that felt unfamiliar gave us that vacation feeling. A fresh environment that inspired and energized us. We stayed for around two hours accompanied by music playing softly on the speakers, which added to the vibe and made it a great place to just hang out.
Before we left, we put together a mood board and collected inspiration photos from each member for their personal platforms, then we set off to create.
Georgia even biked to the location on that beautiful day and was so happy pulling up to the site. The team opened just for us. It was such a warm and positive vibe from everyone there — definitely a place where you feel truly connected.
How to Create the Perfect Outing Without Breaking the Bank
You don’t have to spend a lot to make an outing feel special. Start by looking up local places around you. What we found is that reaching out to spots online — through Instagram or email — is an amazing way to get access to places that might feel a little exclusive.
Send them a simple proposal. Something like: “Hey, me and my friends would love to come take some content and share our experience with you. Would you be interested in allowing us to visit and document our time?”
Most of the time, if they respond, you’ll get a positive reply that can give you a serious energy boost all on its own.
Here’s a little tip: offering to create content can sometimes get you a free experience or at least a discounted one. If you have a portfolio, this can open doors to serious paid opportunities down the line. It’s a mix of the thrill of enjoying it at no cost, building your portfolio, pitching to your next client, and—of course—having a really fun time.
Take time to explore what you really love doing. Not everything has to involve money. Even if you can’t find a local spot or a way to get there, look for things you can create at home or nearby.
Want to make your favourite drink and enjoy some fresh air? Look up a fun recipe and make it yourself, all while planning to savour some me-time outside.
Content or no content, taking time out of your day to find what fuels you is how you naturally elevate with the seasons around you.
Enjoy your experiences and find pleasure in every moment you create.
Simple Routines to Make the Most of Your Summer Haze
Whether you’re working full-time or have a free day ahead, there are little rituals that can turn your routine into something grounding, refreshing, and even exciting. Here’s how to find joy in both.
On Working Days
Start your day by being a little more intentional with your “get ready” time. That could mean putting on a playlist you love, doing your skincare in peace, making a beautiful breakfast, or stopping for your favourite iced coffee on the way. Even something as small as packing your favourite lunch can set the tone for the day.
Try planning something to look forward to after work — and that doesn’t have to mean a big activity. You could have a long 12 to 16 hour shift ahead, and fun might just be curling up with your PJs and a snack you’ve been craving. Maybe it’s knowing you’re going to pour the last glass of that wine and binge your current Love Island obsession.
No matter what your day looks like, giving yourself something to be excited about — even if it’s just peace and quiet — is just as important as fueling your body in the morning.
On Free Days
Here’s where you get to take back some control. Plan something — not to be productive, but to be intentional. That might mean getting outside with friends, taking yourself out for a little solo date, or even just catching up on life and chores while lighting a candle and putting on music you love.
Flow with the energy of this is my day. You don’t need an extravagant plan. Just decide to make space for you — and let the rest unfold.
Your Summer Routine Table
| Working Day Tips | Free Day Tips |
|---|---|
| Do a simple get-ready ritual to center yourself | Set one small intention for the day |
| Make or grab your favourite morning drink | Treat yourself to a slow start (sleep in, no rush) |
| Pack or plan a lunch that feels like a little gift | Go out or stay in — but claim the space for you |
| Plan a small treat or moment to look forward to after work | Romanticize errands or chores with music and candles |
| Make rest feel special: fav PJs, snack run, or a solo binge night | Try one fun thing (DIY spa day, walk, or hobby time) |
✨ So whether you’re clocking in or lounging in, the secret to making your summer haze hit just right?
Romanticize it. Intentionally. Softly. Loudly. However you need.
And if your version of “fun” is wine + Love Island reruns in your comfiest pj’s? That’s iconic behavior.
soft glow, iced coffee in hand, main character energy activated.
Now go live your Pinterest board IRL. 🫶🌞
