Ahhh, summer. Long, sunny days, family vacations, beautiful scenery, trips to the beach … what’s not to love? The summer is all about barbeques, concerts, parties, and spending time with the people you love, but it’s also the perfect time to focus on your wellness. From (safely) soaking up the sun to getting your vitamin D to taking your workout outdoors, increase your well-being while making the most of the season.
Enjoy the outdoors with exercise and more.
If you live in a climate with all four seasons, the warmth and sunshine of summer is especially welcome. Spending time outside is one of the best parts of the season, and enjoying time in nature – whether you’re hiking, picnicking, or simply hanging out in your yard – can be beneficial to your well-being.
One of the easiest ways to up your wellness game in the summer is to take your workout outside. Try a new run route or bike path, do yoga in your backyard, or grab the family and bike for ice cream. If you’re camping, go for a swim or head off on a hike. Visiting a new city on vacation? Pack your most comfortable sneakers and walk instead of taking transit. Focus on movement that feels good and is fun – the season is short, so make the most of it.
Eat seasonally.
Take advantage of the many farmers markets and in-season produce to brighten up your mealtime. Even if you eat lots of fruits and veggies year round, the flavors are so much better and more vibrant when they’re in season that your go-to recipes can be truly transformed – and your body will thank you for all those feel-good vitamins and minerals. Make summer salads, grill veggies or peaches, whip up a crumble or crisp with too-ripe berries … the possibilities are endless.
(Safely) soak up some vitamin D.
The sun is the best source of vitamin D, so grab your SPF and catch a few rays to support your immune health and more. Just a few minutes in direct sunlight can be majorly beneficial – just don’t forget to slather on the SPF 30+ and reapply every few hours.
Sunlight can also be beneficial for your mood and mental health, so take a few minutes to enjoy the rays each day. Have your morning coffee on the patio or sit outside for lunch if you can. Put distractions away and be mindful of your surroundings and emotions.
Hydrate, hydrate, hydrate!
When the temperature soars and the humidity is high, focus on upping your water intake throughout the day. If you struggle to drink an adequate amount of water, mix it up by adding a squeeze of lemon or lime, cucumber slices, or even a splash of Chlorofresh® Liquid Chorophyll. Iced tea counts too!
Take some time off.
Use those vacation days! Set up your “out of office” reminder, put away email, and allow yourself to channel the endless summers of your childhood. Read books, build campfires, see new sights, or swim in the pool or lake until you’re totally exhausted. Life is short, and summer doesn’t last forever!