Before we get too far into the festivities, it’s a good time to review a few ways to stay safe and healthy in the summer.
Tips for Healthy Living in the Summer
Our winter is a high price to pay for the short time we get to enjoy the fun and warmth of the summer months. To get the most out of this short-but-awesome season, it’s a good idea to always keep an eye on health and safety precautions.
Here are five things to keep in mind to stay safe this summer:
1. Play Outside
A recommendation to spend time connecting with the earth may sound kind of “New-Agey” but it really is good for your health. Don’t worry about it if there isn’t a forest at your doorstep. You can reap the rewards of the great outdoors in your own backyard. Spend some time gardening or just hanging out with your shoes off in a local park.
2. See Your Eye Care Professional
There are a lot of recommendations to protect your skin from the harsh rays of the sun, but did you know it’s just as important to protect your eyes? Visit your eye care professional to see if prescription sunglasses are a good option for you, and check your health and dental insurance policy to see if you have coverage.
3. Wear Sunscreen
Speaking of recommendations to protect your skin in the summer, here’s one more to use sunscreen. It really is your best defence against skin cancer, short of staying inside. And who wants to do that? If you’re unsure of what kind to use, check the recommended product list from the Canadian Dermatology Association.
4. Use Your Vacation Time
Every year, over a quarter of Canadians go without taking some or all of their vacation time. Like your health and dental insurance benefits, your vacation time is part of the overall compensation you receive for working hard every day. You might think you’re too busy to take your vacation. You will be more efficient and effective if you have taken some time off to regroup, and the drop in your stress level will affect your health for the better.
5. Eat Fresh!
They say we’re supposed to eat 5-10 servings of fruits and vegetables every day. For some of us, that’s hard to do when most fresh food is out of season, and the imported versions put too much strain on the household budget. This shouldn’t be a problem in the summer. In fact, you can use your vacation, get outside, use sunscreen AND eat fresh by visiting one of the many pick-your-own farms this summer!
Good health helps you get more out of all the great stuff this season has to offer. Taking a few steps towards healthy living this summer can make sure you have lots time to enjoy it!
