Summer is the time you’ve been waiting for; with it, comes beach-worthy weather and a break from schoolwork. It’s a time for relaxing and having fun, but it’s also a time to pay attention to your health. No need to worry—by following just a handful of simple rules, staying healthy this summer will be a breeze.
Stay hydrated
You’ve heard it before and there’s a reason: staying hydrated can help you stay healthy. Drinking plenty of water is especially important during the warm summer months. Lemonade, iced tea, and iced coffee are just a few of the preferred tasty drinks of the summer; enjoy your favorite, but never skimp out on water because of it. Drinking water is energizing, aids digestion, and combats dehydration, so drink up!
Avoid sunburns
Be kind to your skin—protect it from the sun. On the days you plan to be outside, check the internet for your area’s current UV index. Wear sunblock accordingly! Even if planning to tan, you should still apply a sunscreen with a low SPF. Getting a lobster-red sunburn is a sure way to spoil any beach day.
Catch some Zs
We all imagine catching up on sleep during the summer, but the reality usually proves to be a little different. All-nighters often continue on into the summer, though no longer because of schoolwork. Whether you’re staying out with friends or staying in with cable TV and Wi-Fi, it’s likely that you won’t always get in your eight hours of sleep every night. Sleeping late and taking naps can be great, but it’s best to at least keep a semi-regular sleep schedule. If you have a decent night sleep, you’ll be more energized for the day, plain and simple. Don’t waste summer days under the covers when you could be out under the sun!
Keep a balanced diet
Summer is a time to celebrate; it means enjoying nice weather, relaxing, and spending time with friends and family. Such celebrations never seem to be complete without sharing some tasty treats. Diets can change a lot during the summer because of frequent simple things like going to restaurants with friends, eating at backyard cookouts, and snacking on the couch during blissfully lazy days. Let your taste buds have their fun, but be conscious of what types of foods do more to honor your body. Remember to balance out treats with seasonal fruits and veggies, and whole grains.
Get outside!
Staying active is always important, and what better time to do it than the summer? Take advantage of that sunny weather, and get outside! Go jogging, hiking, bike riding, swimming, or even just take the family dog for a long walk around the block. Find what’s right for you, get your blood flowing, and breathe in the fresh summer air.
So remember: pay attention to your health habits this summer in order to feel your best and get the most out of the sunny season.
Photo credit: Simon Welsch
