Summer is finally here, and what better time to think about health and well-being? If you’re keen to give your body and mind a boost this summer, we’ve put some simple health hacks together.
Embrace a more active lifestyle
Many of us feel more energetic in the summer when the skies are blue and the days are longer and lighter. If you’ve got a spring in your step, try to embrace a more active lifestyle. Play sports, go for long walks on the beach, go hiking or cycling, or enjoy a refreshing dip in a local lido. Use summer picnics in the park and trips to the beach to have fun with family and friends and burn off some energy. From competitive games of frisbee and cricket to running races, surf lessons and coastal hikes, there’s something for everyone. Aim to do at least 150 minutes of moderate exercise per week. This can include everything from walking, cycling, playing tennis and doing yoga to going to a dance or spin class, or trying kayaking or paddleboarding. Regular exercise and spending time outdoors are beneficial for both mental and physical health.
Make lifestyle changes
It’s not always possible to reduce health risks or avoid certain illnesses and diseases by changing our lifestyles, but often, taking positive steps can have an incredible impact on our health. Giving up smoking, exercising more and drinking less alcohol are excellent examples.
It’s not easy to quit smoking, but giving up cuts the risk of developing some types of cancer, high blood pressure, respiratory illnesses and heart disease. Some people find that buying cheap vapes as an alternative to cigarettes helps while others benefit from advice from healthcare professionals and group support. If you’d like advice, you can contact your GP, local pharmacy or stop smoking service. If you’re keen to reduce your alcohol intake, keep a diary to see how many units you consume per week. Try to keep some days free from alcohol and alternate alcoholic drinks with water or soft drinks if you’re going out. It’s also a great idea to try 0% drinks. You can buy a huge range of alcohol-free cocktails, beers, wines and spirits now. If you’re worried about how much you drink, don’t hesitate to speak to your GP.
Protect your skin
Many of us love summer because it means warm, sunny weather and spending long hazy days in the garden or going on holiday. If you’re out and about, always remember to protect your skin. Apply sun lotion and wear sunglasses and a hat. Try to avoid sitting out between 12pm and 3pm when the sun’s rays are at their most powerful. Sunburn can be very painful and it can also cause premature ageing and an increased risk of skin cancer.
Drink more water
Drinking more water is one of the simplest ways to improve your health this summer. Drinking water is essential to stay hydrated at any time of the year, but when it’s hot outside, you’ll need to increase your fluid intake. Carry a bottle of water around with you. Aim for 2 litres per day. Increase the amount you drink if you’re exercising or you’ve been sweating because it’s very hot outside.
Summer is finally in full swing and many of us will be looking to embrace healthy living. If you’re on a mission to boost your mental and physical health this summer, follow these steps. Get active and try to address bad habits by making positive lifestyle changes. Spend time outside, protect your skin and make sure you stay hydrated.