Summer is the best time to try new things, maybe a new hobby, a new style or even a new fitness journey. With the sun and good weather, you can try absolutely anything. Here are a few tips and tricks on how to stay actively healthy during the summertime.
Staying weather safe
When the sun starts to come out, getting outside is the number one task, but you also have to be safe about it. It can get very hot and humid during the summer with calls for rain here and there, and with that, it can deter your physical health.
If you plan to be out in that summer sun, be sure to stay hydrated. Sometimes drinking water can be the last on our minds but it can cause harm if you do not stay hydrated, especially during those warmer months. Being dehydrated can lead to fainting spells and heat exhaustion. Even if you do not seem thirsty, drink water to reduce possible physical harm.
Not only is keeping your inner body healthy extremely important, but your skin needs protection too. The skin can be very sensitive during the summer months due to the UVs the sun gives off. Being protected by those rays is extremely important, when venturing outside be sure to put on sunblock and reapply multiple times throughout the day.
Clothing items can also be a big help to protect your skin; hats, sunglasses and long sleeves can be an extra layer of protection.
The CDC provides a thorough explanation of heat health, including why to stay hydrated and what symptoms to look out for.
"If your body gets too hot, you can get sick. Know the symptoms of your body overheating and know when to seek medical care. Symptoms include: muscle cramping, unusually heavy sweating, shortness of breath, dizziness, headaches [and more]," the CDC warns.
Summer activities
Staying active does not mean you have to overexert yourself; sometimes it can be just as simple as taking a relaxing walk. Walking is a great way to start your active lifestyle, and it can be relaxing and a great way to get fresh air at any time. Anytime you are walking can be very beneficial, not only to enjoy the weather but also for your health.
According to Better Health, “Just 30 minutes every day can increase cardiovascular fitness, strengthen bones, reduce excess body fat and boost muscle power and endurance.”
When you find yourself enjoying that cold breeze coming from your AC and have just sat down to dive into some video games or something similar, take a break between the games to enjoy some at-home workouts such as push ups and sit ups.
Staying indoors does not mean you cannot be active. On a rainy day, most stay in and watch a movie to pass the gloomy time. To enjoy that gloomy weather, you can also do yoga, Zumba or any type of at-home workout.
Yoga is a great way to stay active; not only does yoga benefit your physical health, but it can also benefit your mental health. Mental health plays a big part in staying active, and staying active can also be a part of your mental health journey. It can be a release for many, to strive in a physical aspect of their life. Through the Zen of Yoga, you can reduce stress and anxiety, as well as improve your sleep and focus.
Even when on vacation, staying active can still be achieved. You can try a new hobby such as kayaking or even paddle boarding; you can also excel in a learned activity such as swimming or biking along the shore.
Getting active can be fun
Staying active can be fun during and after, as exercise can boost chemicals in your brain like serotonin. The Mayo Clinic discusses various ways getting active can make you feel better.
"Need an emotional lift? Or need to lower stress after a stressful day? A gym session or brisk walk can help. Physical activity stimulates many brain chemicals that may leave you feeling happier, more relaxed and less anxious," Mayo Clinic says.
Getting out and exercising can also be better enjoyed with friends or family, or by listening to your favorite music or show.
Staying active does not have to be a miserable task for anyone, it can be as simple as strolling along the streets with your friends or even hiking along a dirt path with beautiful greenery surrounding you.
