Summer is almost here! Mental health and physical health are largely connected, so by taking care of your body, you’re also taking care of your mind. Here are some wellness tips to help you and your employees prepare for the upcoming season while maintaining a healthy lifestyle!
Stay Hydrated: As the temperatures rise, it’s important to drink lots of water. Aim for drinking 10, eight ounce glasses of water per day. To help you stay hydrated and reach your daily intake goals, consider carrying a water bottle with you and refill as necessary. Be creative: put some frozen berries in your water or even some mint leaves and lime slices. Opt for snacks with high-water content such as watermelon, cantaloupe, tomatoes, and cucumbers. You can infuse your water with seasonal fresh fruits or vegetables such as cucumbers to add variety to your daily drinks.
Enjoy Seasonal Fruits and Vegetables: Summer brings a bounty of healthy, nutritious, fresh fruits and vegetables. Fruits and veggies contain vitamins, nutrients, and minerals proven to protect the body from cancer, heart disease, diabetes, and much more. Be sure to eat six to eight servings a day.
Catch Some Vitamin D Rays: Vitamin D helps to boost your mood, immunity and energy. Summer is the perfect time to get the necessary amounts! Though small amounts Vitamin D are present in food, the most optimal source is direct sun exposure. To absorb the recommended daily dose of natural Vitamin D, 15-30 minutes of unprotected exposure is recommended.
Wear Sunscreen: Look for at least an SPF 30 and wear it all the time! Even if you are just running errands or going for a “short walk,” ultraviolet exposure increases somewhere between four and 10 percent for every 1,000 feet above sea level. So at an altitude of 9,000 feet (about equal to Georgetown), UV radiation can be nearly 50 percent more intense than at sea level. Hats, sunglasses, and lightweight clothing are also great ways to protect yourself from too much sun!
Spend Time Outdoors: With longer days, warmer weather, and seasonal events, summer is the best time to enjoy the outdoors! Spend the afternoon at the beach, go to a local park, take a walk, or enjoy quiet time outside. The benefits of fresh air and nature are endless for both your mental and physical health and wellness.
Connect with others: Plan something fun with family or friends. It doesn’t need to be expensive, but being social and around others will help keep any negative thoughts from ruminating. If you aren’t feeling like being in a crowded space (street fair, farmers’ market, amusement park), try to call at least one person to stay connected.
Exercise Daily: Daily exercise boosts energy and fitness levels, helping you feel better both physically and mentally! Summer offers ample opportunities for you to exercise – hiking, biking, running, walking, and swimming are all great options. If you prefer to be more social, participate in outdoor group fitness classes or recreational sports leagues.
Recommit to Wellness: Summer is a great time to explore new wellness options and recommit to your daily health. By drinking lots of water, exercising, and spending time outdoors in the summer months, you can create wellness habits and a daily routine that helps you maintain good health throughout the year!
Use these tips to help take care of yourself this summer and stay safe and healthy all season long! We wish you a healthy, happy summer!