Summertime means vacations, camping, farmer’s markets, fairs, and maybe even a stampede or two! Here are some tips so you can enjoy a healthy and safe summer. 

Drinking Water Hydrates and Helps all body Functions

1. Drinking water is vital to your health.  Water helps us to stay cool and hydrated on those hot summer days. We need to drink at least 16-32 ounces on just a normal summer day, more as the temperature rises.   When you are out and about, bring enough water for the whole family. It is important to remember infants and toddlers can become much more quickly dehydrated than adults.

Your pets also can get sun stroke and dehydrated so it is best to exercise them in the early morning or evening hours when it is cooler. AND never leave children or pets unattended in your vehicle even for a few minutes.

2. Limit your exposure to the sun by wearing a hat/cap, light loose-fitting clothes and use natural sunscreens.  If you have overexposed yourself to the sun’s rays use Aloe Vera gel for the healing and cooling feeling benefits it will provide. Safeguard your eyes with sunglasses that have UV ray protection.

3. If you are planning to do a lot of walking or any sport activities wear the appropriate shoes for these activities. Make sure they are light, comfortable, and wear cotton socks; this will help you avoid blisters and sprains.

Check out Local Super Markets and Farmers Markets for all in seasoned Fruits and Vegetables.

4. To maintain your energy levels this is the perfect time of the year to find Nature’s bounty of fresh fruits and vegetables at Farmer’s Markets and supermarkets. Consume foods that are light and cooling, prepare—vegetable/fruit smoothies, salads, platters of sliced fruits & vegetables. Adding proteins such as nuts, seeds, sprouted beans, soy products, yogurt, and cottage cheese make a light meal. For dinners fish and poultry are easy to barbeque and provide a break from ‘heavier’ meats.

5. Summer Teas are becoming increasingly popular and provide a tasty way to stay hydrated. Try this simple recipe: Take a clear half or one gallon glass jar and fill it with spring water; add flowers and tea leaves or bags – peppermint, chamomile, or lemon grass work well. Make sure they are of a safe quality. Leave in the sun for two hours or up to a whole day and then enjoy.  You can also make moon tea to help enhance your lunar, dreamy side by letting your herbs steep in the cooling, mystical moonlight. Experiment with different flavorings; try orange or lemon peel, a sprig of rosemary, lavender or a few jasmine flowers.

http://www.health.alberta.ca/health-info/lyme-disease.html.

6. Gardening, camping, hiking, and playing outdoors all provide exercise but these outdoor activities can bring with them tick borne diseases.  Reduce that risk by using safe repellents and when you come indoors check clothing, body parts and your pet’s fur. A shower and putting your outdoor clothes in the wash will also help.

7. Last but not least – make sure when traveling to take a natural first aid kit for bites, bee strings, or injuries.

So go out and have a wonderful summer with family and friends; check out this wonderful back yard of ours and enjoy nature and all it has to offer you! Have a happy, healthy and fun summer!