Summer is officially here and while these may not be the months of cold weather flu season, that doesn’t mean your health goes to the wayside. Gear up for the warm weather with these tips!
- Protect yourself from the sun. The summer is known for its sunny weather and it’s great to get outside and enjoy it, but make sure to protect yourself from the sun’s harmful rays. Always wear sunscreen for any outdoor activities (not just the beach!) Sunscreen is not only great for preventing skin cancer but also premature aging, spots, or skin discoloration. Not only that, but I think we all know how painful a sunburn can be! Commonly missed spots that still need protecting include your ears, neck, hands, and tops of your feet if you are in open-toed shoes. Also make sure to wear sunglasses to protect your eyes and a hat to shield your face and protect your scalp (the top of your head can burn too!).
- Eat on the lighter side. Summer is the perfect time to incorporate fresh fruits and vegetables into meals because a lot of them are in season. You can make healthy salads using in-season vegetables like arugula, cucumbers, bell peppers, and more. Fruits in season include cherries, blackberries, strawberries, melon, and plenty others that are great for including in breakfasts, as a snack on their own, or in a smoothie! And because of the weather you can grill rather than bake or fry lots of foods, more readily find farmer’s markets available near you, or even start your own garden!
- Take advantage of the warm weather for exercise. The summer is a great time to enjoy fun workouts like hiking, bike riding, walking or running on trails, swimming, kayaking, and more! Staying healthy and active during the summer months is a lot easier and more fun because these activities don’t even feel like a workout. Plus, you get to explore beautiful places around where you live. Grab the family, some friends, or your pet and get outdoors!
- Keep up with your health appointments. The summer is a great time to visit the doctor, dentist, or catch up on any check-ups that might have been pushed to the side during the school year. Those home from college should especially use the summer as a way to get in their yearly visits and vaccinations they may not have access to as easily at school.
- Summer is a time for relaxation. Those in the workforce should take advantage of any vacation time they have to take a trip or at least have some “rest” days. It is vital to get outside to soak up the natural vitamin D as well as the restorative negative ions that nature provides (and that our computers, other electronics, and sitting all day zaps). Plus, breaks are important to your health as they offer a busy professional the opportunity to regroup, refresh, re-energize, and ultimately become more productive. If you can't get too far away from the office, make the most of the scheduled break times you have during the work day by getting outside and experiencing the summer weather, eating healthy foods, and recharging through restorative breathing or meditation!
Enjoy the summer and stay healthy!
-Hannah Kotler
Photo Credit: bobobahmat 2017. Lviv. Ukraine via photopin (license)
