What are your favorite summer activities? When we polled the Rebound Physical Therapy staff, backyard barbecues easily topped the list. There’s no denying that summer offers a wide range of fun activities, from swimming to hiking to visiting amusement parks.
However, you don’t want to neglect your overall health and wellness in the summer. There are certain risks that come with longer days and warmer weather, and it’s important to be aware of them so you can stay safe and healthy all season long.
Today, we want to share ten essential wellness tips to help you make the most of the season.
1. Stay hydrated.
- One of the simplest ways to enjoy summer to the fullest is by staying hydrated. While drinking water throughout the day is essential, remember that you meet a percentage of your hydration needs through food, so opt for water-rich options like melons and strawberries, too.
2. Wear sunscreen (and not just the pool, either).
- It’s not your imagination: the sun’s rays really do become more intense in the summer due to the Earth’s axial tilt. That makes regular sunscreen application a necessity anytime you spend significant time outdoors. Apply sunscreen with at least SPF 30 to prevent sunburn and skin cancer.
3. Practice good sleep hygiene.
- Warmer weather and long daylight hours can sometimes disrupt your sleep routine, but getting your full 7-9 hours a night is crucial for staying healthy. Practice good sleep hygiene by maintaining a consistent schedule and avoiding screens at night. Make sure your bedroom is dark and cool as well!
4. Eat light and fresh.
- Summer is the perfect time to hit the farmer’s market for fresh, seasonal produce, such as tomatoes, eggplants, watermelons, and berries. Also, save the heavy meals for winter and opt for lighter options like fish or grilled chicken.
5. Make the Most of the Outdoors
- Did you know spending time outdoors can boost your mood and relieve stress? Fortunately, summer is a great time to get out and enjoy nature–even if you hate the heat. Swimming is a great way to be active outside without getting too hot, and the hiking trails and nature parks are often cooler than the city.
6. Practice Sun Safety
- We all love to soak up some sunshine now and then, but spending too much time in the sun can lead to heat exhaustion or dehydration. Minimize the risk by wearing a hat and sunglasses and staying hydrated. Try to avoid peak sun hours, usually from 10 AM – 4 PM.
7. Schedule Health Check-Ups
- Summer’s slower pace is a great time to ensure you’re in tip-top shape by scheduling regular check-ups at your doctor and dentist.
8. Dress for the Weather
- Dressing appropriately for the heat can really help you stay comfortable. Choose breathable fabrics like cotton or linen in light colors.
9. Don’t Overdo It on Vacation
- Heading off on a week-long vacation? Take care not to overexert yourself. Schedule time to rest between outings, and always listen to your body–if you feel tired, take it easy! This is especially true if you’re spending a lot of time in the sun.
10. Don’t Forget to Connect with Loved Ones
- A strong social life improves mental health, and summer is the perfect season to reconnect with family and friends. Invite your loved ones over for a trip to the pool or an al fresco evening meal.
Have a Great Summer!
We hope these wellness tips will help you enjoy all of summer’s bounty. So grab your sunscreen, fill up your water bottle, and get ready for a healthy, happy season!
