SET SUMMER GOALS…BE ACTIVE
BY: LANAE AGEE, RN, CHIEF WELLNESS OFFICER –
Living here in the center part of North Carolina, we are so privileged to be not too far from the beach, and not too far from the mountains…we are blessed with Carolina blue skies.
For me the summer sun is a charge, a reboot so to speak. Many people make New Year’s resolutions. But really, the best time to adopt some health and wellness changes to your lifestyle is in the summer. The weather is great to be outside and there is time in the schedule to enjoy family and friends.
Setting some summer goals is easy. Start by making a list…
DRINK MORE PURE WATER – Not just because it is hot out, but because water can boost metabolism, help lose weight, improve digestion and moisturize skin. Our bodies are 70% water, drinking more PURE water removes toxins, improves joints, builds muscle tone, suppresses appetite and is key to your overall health. If you think water is unpalatable, try adding lemon, lime or even cucumber.
INCREASE DAILY STEP COUNT – Ok, so you are meeting your 10,000 step goal on your fitness tracker. How about bumping it up for the summer months? Why not try 12,000 a day and see how that motivates you to be more active. That is 14,000 more per week! Being more active is great for your heart and mental clarity.
BE ACTIVE WITH YOUR KIDS MORE – I know this sounds a bit obvious, but how many times do we catch ourselves sitting poolside reading a book or on our phones. Why not get out there WITH them. Be present. Your kids will remember it and thank you later. Play a game of corn hole, throw the frisbee, build a sand castle, play paddle ball, or go for a bike ride. Don’t make it complicated. Just get out of the chair.
TAKE UP A NEW SPORT – This might be the perfect summer to try paddle boarding or tennis. How about beach volleyball or dare I say, golf! Trying a new sport can be fun and will keep you from being bored doing the same ole thing. Who knows, you might just be good at it. But you won’t know unless you try.
EAT MORE FRUITS & VEGETABLES – How about adding 2 more servings of fruits and vegetables a day. Instead of snacking on chips or ice cream, reach for an orange or bowl of blueberries. With many fruits and vegetables in season, now is the perfect time to maintain great habits. Visit your local farmer’s market and stock up on the local produce in season.
If you notice, 3 out of the 5 things I mention are about being active. WHY? Because physical activity is important to keeping your mind and body healthy. Being active is an excellent way to feel happy, whether you do it on your own or with a group. If you’ve had a tough day at work, a long day with the kids, or feel overwhelmed and stressed out, moving your body can help you relax and feel better. The brain soaks up 20% of all oxygen in our bodies. So when you breathe deep during exercise, bringing more air into your lungs, your brain loves the extra oxygen. And when you’re active and running around, sometimes it’s hard to think about just what it was that was bothering you.
Set some goals for this summer but remember to keep them simple, attainable and out where you can see them.