Summer is in full swing, which for many people means family outings, late nights with friends and beautiful weather. These are all mutually beneficial outings for your mind and body, but whatever your situation may be, it’s imperative to stay both physically and mentally healthy to maintain an active lifestyle.
Our mental health is frequently impacted by the state of our physical well-being, and vice versa is often true as well. So throughout the summer months (and the rest of the year), keep your physical and mental health in tiptop shape by applying these healthy habits to your life:
- Healthy Eating – It may be tempting to grab a sip of every cold drink and tasty beverage along your way, but make sure to consume proper nutrients to stay alert and on the go. Fruits and vegetables right out of the refrigerator are great ways to cool off and replenish your daily nutrients. Instead of chips and soda, bring dried fruit and water on every adventure to rehydrate and refuel with micronutrients, fiber and antioxidants.
- Sun Protection – The sun is out and hotter than ever, which means the threat of UV (ultraviolet) rays should be a top consideration. Rays are strongest between 10 a.m. – 4 p.m., so plan accordingly and refer to this UV index for more accurate information near you. A good tan can be nice, but a bad burn will ruin any vacation. Bring along sunscreen with appropriate SPF (sun protection factor) and UV protected glasses to shield yourself from the increased risk of sunburns, eye disease and melanoma.
- Late Nights – Clear skies and no worries can lead to escapades long into the evening. However you choose to burn the midnight oil, knowing when to hit the hay is key to providing your mind and body with the sleep it deserves. Dr. Merrill Mitler, a neuroscientist and expert on sleep patterns, states “Sleep services all aspects of our body in one way or another: molecular, energy balance, as well as intellectual function, alertness and mood.” Listen to the Doc; recharge, relax, and let your body unwind the way it knows best.
- Stay Connected – Our mental health can depend on the connections we make throughout our lives, making the comfort of summer the perfect time to reconnect with close friends or loved ones. Don’t underestimate the power of staying connected, it can support you or those around you during times of need.
- Get Outside – Make plans to get outside and be physically active. The sun’s natural vitamin D allows our bodies to absorb minerals and increase blood cells, and you only need between 5 – 15 minutes a day for maximum exposure. This could be anything from strolling down the street to going to the amusement park. Simply being outside can provide you with much needed clarity and energy to strengthen your summer experience.
- Water – Staying hydrated on hot summer days can easily boost energy, thinking, mood changes, prevent constipation and even kidney stones. Bring a water bottle with you on all outdoor adventures for maximum enjoyment. You’ll thank your past self for that refreshing gulp of water when you need it the most.
- Make Memories – Putting off plans and not making time for the people you care about can add strain and stress to your mental health. We’re not saying to sacrifice your mental health for friendship by giving up time for yourself, but we are saying to enhance your mental health by having fun with your friends and loved ones. Making memories with those you love most adds to your relationships, physical well-being and life experiences. Live in the now and seize the day, you’ll notice more fulfilling years as you look back on these newfound memories.
We all want to live our best lives, but only some of us do so while maintaining healthy balances of our physical and mental well-being. By choosing to outweigh the bad with the good, you choose to provide longevity to your life. Preserve your best years with the best habits to ensure decades of happiness and health.
