Summer is a time of sunshine, heat, water, long days, picnics and recreation. Life feels less chaotic, which is why summer is a perfect time to improve your wellness. Here are some expert tips that will help you savor the season and be your best you.
Give your diet a berry boost
If you do one thing this summer to improve your nutrition, have a cup of berries — blackberries, blueberries or strawberries — every day. They’ll help you load up on antioxidants, which may help prevent damage to tissues and reduce the risks of age-related illnesses. Berries are also packed with fiber, which helps keep cholesterol low and may even prevent some cancers. Blueberries are in season now and are especially rich in antioxidants.
Get dirty
To improve your stress level, plant a small garden, cultivate a flower box, or if you don’t have much space, plant a few flower pots (indoors or out). Just putting your hands in soil is “grounding.” Being mentally grounded can help relieve physical and mental stress.
Be good to your eyes
Wear sunglasses that block at least 99 percent of ultraviolet rays. Sunglasses also can prevent cataracts, not to mention wrinkles around the eyes. When you’re playing sports or doing work like mowing the lawn, wear protective eyewear. Ask your eye doctor about the best type.
Take a vacation
Vacations have multiple benefits. They can help lower your blood pressure, heart rate, and stress hormones like cortisol, which contributes to a widening waist and increased risk of heart disease.
Keep hydrated
Staying hydrated helps to reduce heat illness and helps you acclimate to hot environments.
Know how to treat poison ivy and poison sumac
Applying plain calamine and cool compresses is best. If your rash is extensive or on your face, see your doctor.
Observe water safety rules
Don’t swim alone. Bring and wear life jackets on boats and when water skiing or tubing. Boating and alcohol is not okay.
Read a summer sizzler
Reading can help you relax and keeps your brain sharp too!