Summer is here! For many of us, the change in season drives change in how we live our lives; time spent outdoors, ways we socialise with family and friends, the foods we eat and often increasing activity levels in the warmer months.
The warmer weather and change in conditions can also make our bodies more susceptible to different health issues and there are a few key tips that we can all employ as part of our everyday routine to keep ourselves and our families happy, safe and healthy this summer.
1. Stay cool & hydrated.
- Sip water frequently throughout the day, be mindful of when you are feeling thirsty.
- Take a water bottle with you on day trips and holidays.
- Do your best to limit, or better still avoid, sugar-filled drinks, alcohol and tea/coffee, which can make you even more dehydrated.
Plan ahead to stay cool.
- Keep your house cool by closing windows in the day, drawing curtains/blinds. Get fresh air into the home by opening windows at night when its cooler
2. Summer foods & fun.
- Eat seasonal local produce, salads and smaller, lighter meals – fruit and vegetables that are grown, picked and eaten fresh will have higher levels of vitamins and minerals.
- Make family eating interesting, fun and healthy – create easy-to-make healthy & delicious treats for the family such as crisp cold watermelon straight from the fridge, juice ice-blocks or crisp frozen grapes from the freezer.
3. Stay sun smart.
- Slip on a long-sleeved shirt.
- Slop on the SPF50+ sunscreen.
- Slap on a wide-brimmed hat.
- Seek shade – endeavour to stay out of the sun between 10am – 3pm, when UV Index levels are at their peak.
- Slide on a pair of sunglasses to protect your eyes.
- Skin checks – make a habit of getting your skin checked at least once a year.
4. Travel & health.
- Bushfires and air quality – consider air quality before heading outside during the summer months. Suburban areas nowhere near bushfires can also experience poor air quality caused by smoke and ash in the air.
- Vaccinations – if you’re heading overseas this summer, then please ensure you make an appointment with us to ensure that all of your vaccinations are up-to-date.
5. Fuel your body & mind
- Stay active – plan your days to include at least 30mins of brisk exercise. This could be in the form of a morning walk/run or swim.
- Again, practice mindfulness and be open to new ways to calm a busy mind, this can be achieved through meditation, pilates or yoga.
- Immerse yourself in nature.
These are just some of the simple steps that you can take to protect you and your loved one’s health this summer.
Stay safe and wishing you a Happy Holiday Season from our Qualitas Health family to yours.
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