06 May 5 Ways to Make Your Summer Healthier & Happier
Summer is around the corner: it’s almost time for BBQ’s, lying out by the pool, and enjoying a fun vacation or long weekend. However, summer is a time for temptation with all the delicious treats, time spent on vacation by the pool, and forgetting about the healthy diet and exercise you’ve maintained during the cooler months.
Remember These 5 Tips to Stay Happy & Healthy This Summer:
Remember Sunscreen
Everyone wants the beautiful summer glow; however, using sunscreen below SPF 30 does not protect your skin from the most harmful UV rays. There is also no such thing as a “base tan” or “safe tanning.” The hours of 10am-4pm are peak “danger” hours, so if you plan on being outside don’t forget to reapply your sunscreen often. If you do get a sunburn, make sure you have Aloe Vera gel at home. Your eyes also need protection, so grab some polarized sunglasses – you can find a pair for as little as $25 online.
Stay Hydrated
With temperatures and humidity rising, heat and sweat can leave your body dehydrated. Stay conscious of consuming at least 8 glasses of water a day. Drink even more if you’ll be spending a lot of time outside or if you’re active. Summer is a great time to jazz up your water; add different types of citrus, melons, or berries to give it a delicious and refreshing new flavor – without junk calories or artificial flavors.
Make Substitutions
Frozen treats are a big temptation during the warmer months. Who doesn’t love a soft-serve cone or Popsicle? The problem with those tasty treats is the high sugar levels. Make a healthy substitution with a smoothie, instead! You can add in a variety of fruits to satisfy your sweet tooth, and mix in healthy vegetable greens that your picky eaters will barely notice. That way you have a delicious treat that is filled with nutrients. Feel free to enjoy a few scoops of ice cream here and there when the ice cream truck rolls through. As we’ve noted before, it’s all about moderation.
Keep Up Your Exercise Routine
The hotter it gets, the harder it is to lace up your shoes and go for a run. Switch it up and take your workout indoors or hit the pool! You will enjoy the variety and your body will still get the healthy push it needs to stay strong.
Sleep Well
When summer rolls finally around, it’s easy to lose sleep as the days get longer and daylight lasts well past 9 p.m. Resist the temptation to stay up late and stick to your usual schedule. Your body needs plenty of sleep to stay healthy and refreshed.
If you need help enjoying your summer, Body One Physical Therapy can’t wait to help you get warm-weather ready. Pain, movement, and mobility problems have no place in your summer plans, and working with one of our expert physical therapists can help you get back to what you love doing. We’re locally-owned and operated, with three locations serving Central Indianapolis: North Meridian, Fishers, and Zionsville. Call or click today to find out what makes Body One the best PT practice in Indy!
