It’s that time of year, y’all! Summer is here and we’re busy planning vacations, camping trips, lake trips and BBQ’s.

Getting more outdoor time means increased heat, more movement and more skin that’s soaking in the sun. And while we’re enjoying all of these things, it’s easy to forget how best to take care of our summer-selves.

So, read on for three simple ways to stay healthy while enjoying the outdoors during this amazing and energetic time of year.

 

First and Foremost: Air It Out

Even though allergens are still high, getting outside is super important for our mental, emotional and physical health.

But did you know bringing the outside in is equally important?

Our homes have been closed up all winter and, believe it or not, the air inside your home can be more toxic than the outdoor pollutants.

So open those windows, double down on your allergy supplements (I love Quercetin!) and be ready to dust a few extra times this month, all in the spirit of refreshing your indoor air and bettering your health.

Tip: Invest in an indoor air purifier and Himalayan Salt Lamp! These do a great job of filtering out allergens and purifying your indoor air.

 

Secondly: SPF Please

While planning your crazy summer schedule, don’t forget to start grabbing that sunscreen again.

Such a simple task can help avoid painful burns and the dreaded “we need to biopsy that” conversation.

SPF 30 is a great option, preferably something sweat/waterproof. But just because it’s waterproof doesn’t mean you don’t need to reapply!

Set the bottle out where you’ll remember to spray a little more on, so you can stay safe while soaking up the amazing health benefits of the sun and good ‘ol Vitamin D.

Tip: I put mine by the garage door so I see it every time I go outside. And double down by adding an SPF 30 facial moisturizer to your daily routine.

 

Last But Not Least: Drink Up

Vacations, lake trips, camping and summer activities can include a natural (and fun!) increase in alcoholic and sugary drinks.

Add in heat and increased sweating, and you’ve got a recipe for dehydration.

To avoid the number of pitfalls that come with dehydration, make sure to designate yourself a water bottle that goes everywhere with you.

Whatever size suits your needs is fine, just keep in mind that for optimal health we need at least 64oz of water daily.

And be sure to add an extra 8oz for any alcoholic or caffeinated beverage, as well as any 30 minutes of exercise. Drink up, y’all!

Tip: Try adding Pink Himalayan salt to your daily water intake. Start small (1/4 teaspoon) and work your way up until your body says “that’s good”. Although it sounds counterintuitive, the salt will help rehydrate you at a cellular level and keep you ready for all those summertime activities.

 

Bonus! Outdoor Exercise Ideas

Spring and summer welcome the return of so many activities we missed over the winter. Here are a few ideas to get you moving, sweating, and tanning (healthily, of course):

• Bike riding (trails or neighborhood)
• Walking after dinner with family or friends
• Yoga in the park
• Frisbee, mini or regular golf
• Volleyball
• Hiking
• Swimming
• Tennis
• Stand-up paddleboarding
• Rollerblading
• Kayaking
• Basketball

Remember to pace yourself, listen to your body and stay hydrated, y’all!

 

“Live in the sunshine, swim in the sea, drink the wild air.” – Ralph Waldo Emerson