Overcoming The Summer Doldrums

August 30, 2025

Have you been feeling somewhat listless or despondent over the last few weeks? Are you experiencing a period of inactivity or lack of energy? If so, you are not alone. It may be that those summer doldrums have many of us in a wearisome summer slump!

We’ve all, no doubt, spoken those words many times over the years. However, for the first time, my curiosity motivated me to do a little investigating into the meaning of “doldrums”. Much to my surprise the doldrums are for real! In oceanographic terms, they are a part of the ocean near the equator abounding in calms and light shifting winds.

In the early 19^th century, the word doldrums came to be applied to certain tropical regions of the ocean marked by the absence of strong winds. Sailing vessels, depending on wind propulsion, struggled to make headway in these regions, leading to long, challenging journeys.

While the exact etymology of doldrums is not certain, it is believed to be related to the Old English dol, meaning “foolish” – a history it shares with our adjective dull.

Click here for a much more scientific and very fascinating explanation from NOAA

If you are like other gardeners waiting for the winds to “pick up”, here are a few refreshing ideas to help you navigate through the summertime blues! One of the most delightful ways to celebrate the hot, sticky last few weeks of summer is found in the herb garden. When I’m in search of a culinary treat, summer herbs seem to have the answer. Let’s look at a few of the heat-tolerant, dependable standouts that satisfy the craving.

Whatever your preference, vibrant flavors ranging from sweet and floral to savory and pungent can be found in herbs that persevere through the high heat and icky humidity of summer.

Offering aromatic qualities from minty and citrusy to earthy and woodsy, consider these flavor profiles to suit your preference:

*Sweet and floral: basil, lavender and anise hyssop

*Citrusy: lemon verbena, lemon balm and French sorrel

*Minty: various mints (spearmint, ginger mint, peppermint, etc.), nepitella, oregano and thyme

*Earthy: sage, rosemary and thyme

*Pungent/Spicy: chives, papalo, French tarragon

Enjoy the simple pleasures of growing and harvesting summer herbs. Some of the most satisfying ways for using fresh herbs are found in sprinkling, scattering and tossing over fruits, salads, vegetables and desserts for a delectable finish. Other than a quick trip to the grill, bake free is the best way to savor the gifts of our summer gardens. Use freshly gathered herbs to elevate your food from tasty to irresistible!

Here are a few ideas for a cool ending to summer:

Grilled Peach and Blueberry Salad with Fresh Mint