5 Simple Tips for Staying Happy and Healthy this Summer

It’s summertime and livin’ isn’t always easy.

Oppressive heat and humidity can make the simplest of tasks feel impossibly difficult while vacation and fun plans throw us out of our usual routines.

With the summer beginning, you might face some challenges maintaining the healthy habits you cultivated earlier in the year but with these five simple tips, you can keep yourself on track.

Get outside

Yes, I know getting outside isn’t the easiest when the temperature gauge is rising but your body will undoubtedly appreciate a little time in the fresh air and sunlight.

Vitamin D, produced by your body as a response to sun exposure, greatly benefits both your bodily and mental health. Vitamin D can support your immune, brain, and nervous systems, promotes healthy bones and teeth, and reduces your risk for developing diabetes, high blood pressure, and cancer.1

Studies have also shown that serotonin, your body’s natural mood stabilizer, increases when exposed to bright light so you’re more likely to feel more elevated moods. Higher serotonin levels during the day also affect your melatonin levels at night, helping you to get a better night’s sleep.2

Dress for the weather

While getting outside is good for your overall health, too much exposure to UV rays from the sun can have lasting, negative effects including eye damage and skin cancer. Whether you’re heading to the beach or having a cookout in your backyard, be sure to project yourself with either sunscreen, hat, or sunglasses.

You’ll also want to opt for some lightweight, loose fitting,breathable clothing to help keep you cool and comfortable.

Drink enough water

Of course, staying hydrated is important for maintaining wellness all year round but especially in the summer months.

On average, a person should drink roughly 8 glasses of water every day; however, during the warmer months, you need to drink a bit more to replenish what your body lost through sweating.3

Consume sports drinks and other sugar-filled beverages in moderation, as sugar and caffeine can have dehydrating effects. Stick primarily with water to quench your thirst. You can also add some summer fruits to your cup for some colorful flavor.

Eat for the season

Eating heavy, carb and fat loaded meals can generate a lot of heat in the body, which won’t make you feel your best in the hot summer months. Instead, try to eat small, light meals throughout the day.

Plus, many nutritious fruits and vegetables come into season in the summertime so eating healthy is made easier. Throw some strawberries in a fresh summer salad or enjoy a few refreshing slices of watermelon.

Beat the heat in your workouts

Your fitness routine may face some serious challenges when summer hits, especially if you don’t have an air-conditioned space to move your body.

Low impact workouts are also excellent for summer to avoid overheating. Pietra Fitness offers many well-rounded fitness classes to help keep you active all year round.

Instead of forgoing your workout, try to exercise in the morning or evening when it’s cooler. You can read more about establishing an effective morning fitness routine or an evening fitness routine on our blog. Even better, you can enjoy some classic summer activities like swimming, cycling, or frisbee as exercise.

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