The start of the summer season is almost a holiday in itself for many people. The road trips, BBQ’s, family gatherings and simply enjoying the great outdoors are moments that lots of folks crave and even plan for all year round. The hustle and bustle of summer can be exciting, but it is important to prioritize your health as well in order to enjoy the season. Here are a few tips to help you stay healthy and happy all summer long:
Drink enough water. It sounds simple enough, but is easily forgotten when fun times arrive. If you have a busy day or just a day planned full of adventures, don’t forget to drink enough water. One of the best times to hydrate is after waking in the morning. Remember to keep sipping water throughout the day. Find a new favorite reusable water bottle, or set a gallon of water out on the counter that’s easily accessible and keep working on it throughout the day.
Your physician can tell you how much water you should consume each day, but a general rule is that the average person should drink eight 8-ounce glasses of water a day. It’s the 8×8 rule and easy to remember. Drink more if you’re outside and/or in the sun, exercising or it’s hot. Drink before you feel thirst.
Get outside. Being outside has many mental and physical benefits. One study by the Environmental Health and Preventative Medicine Journal found that cortisol levels and heart rate both decreased within individuals who were able to get more outside time. Shoot for two hours or more each week. What’s even better than just getting outside? Getting physically active while outside! Walking, hiking, biking and more in nature areas is not only a huge stress relief but helps improve short term memory and concentration. Who wouldn’t benefit from a little help in the memory department? Not sure where to go? A quick internet search can help you find local trails or parks to check out.
Relax. Summer is the time for fun. It is super easy this time of year to just go go go and pack all you can in plus more! Consider taking some down time this summer. Schedule some time off and just do nothing. That’s right — do nothing or maybe do something that you have wanted to do but haven’t because you’ve been too busy. This could be taking up watercolor painting or reading that novel you’ve had your eye on for awhile. Just take time to yourself to breathe, relax the mind and body, and rejuvenate your spirit. Is being able to relax not in your nature? Many of us have created a culture of busyness in our life. Here are a few ways to relax:
- Get a massage
- Practice meditation
- Drink some tea
- Stretch
- Unplug or turn off electronics for a few hours
- Be alone somewhere quiet
- Color (yes, adults can use coloring books too!)
- Spend time with a good friend you haven’t seen in a long time
Whatever you choose, just do it…preferably more than once this summer!
Enjoy seasonal produce: Summertime is the best time to eat and explore in season and locally-grown fruit and vegetables. Adding locally grown and/or in-season fruit and vegetables to your diet not only increases your vitamin and mineral intake but could help you find a new favorite. Many fruits and vegetables taste better when they are in season. Try shopping at farmers markets, neighborhood outdoor markets and local grocery stores and explore old and new favorite foods.
Summertime is also a great time to explore nutritional supplements. Quality supplements (like any in our collection!) are a great way to fill in some gaps and help you stay on top of life and all those summer adventures.