Summer is in full swing, and the rising temperatures are all the encouragement many people need to make healthier choices. We tend to eat better, drink more water, and get more exercise during the summer. With this added motivation, summer is the perfect time to form new healthy habits you can use all year round!
Protecting Your Skin
Using sunblock during the summer is a no-brainer, but what about during the fall or winter? Many people don’t realize that their skin is being damaged by harmful UV rays, no matter the temperature. Clouds and overcast weather can’t block the sun from damaging your skin. The only way to truly protect your skin is to use a daily SPF. Your SPF should be 15 or higher. You can find SPF in a spray, cream, lotion, and more. Most major makeup companies even offer makeup already containing SPF, so you don’t have to add an extra step!
Eating Healthy
Summer is a great time to discover a new healthy diet. With local farmers markets and weekly produce sales, you can try more healthy options than ever before! Try to learn to read weekly ads at grocery stores and shop in season. Produce in season will taste better, look better, and come at a lower cost. You can buy in bulk and freeze some of your favorite fruits and veggies to enjoy during the cold winter months. Every season has in-season fruits and vegetables to enjoy, you just might have to step out of your comfort zone and try them!
Increasing Water Intake
Most of us don’t drink enough water daily. In fact, if you feel thirsty, it means that you’re already dehydrated! This summer, you should try to increase your daily water intake. Being dehydrated can lead to muscle cramping and heart dysrhythmias as it works harder to pump blood through your body. Replace juice, soda, coffee, and other unhealthy options with water. Eventually, water will be your drink of choice. To encourage this healthy habit, you should go out and purchase a reusable water bottle that you enjoy. Some even have time measurements telling you how much water to drink each hour!
Making healthy changes this summer will help prevent adding on the usual winter weight over the holidays. Instead of trying to get fit before next summer, you can just stay healthy all year round.
